A Day of Love, Laughter, and Legacy: Schambach Strong Golf Outing Raises Over $30,000 for Imagine

On a brisk and blustery day—just the way he would have loved it—96 hearts gathered at NJ National Golf Course in Basking Ridge. This was more than a golf outing; it was a powerful, heartfelt reunion of former teammates, players, family, and lifelong friends who came together to celebrate the vibrant life and enduring spirit of the late Michael P. Schambach.

The mission was personal: to raise critical support for Imagine, A Center for Coping with Loss, an organization that has provided a lifeline for Mike's own family and countless others. Imagine provides free support groups for children, teens, young adults and caregivers who are grieving the loss of someone close to them.

The day began with the warmth of coffee, bagels, and shared memories, generously sponsored by Wyatt Partners. A touching welcome was delivered by Phil Schambach, Mike's twin brother, reminding everyone why they were there. A particularly moving sight was the junior golfers’ foursome, which included Cameron Schambach, Mike’s son, golfing alongside his friends Antonio Natale, Matthew DePack, and Dominic Rozkowski—a powerful symbol of new beginnings and enduring family bonds.

Though the wind whipped around the course, the golfers were energized by the shared purpose and the presence of Mike's memory. The generous community rallied, providing lunch and beverages sponsored by Bona Vita Benefits Group and outfitting every participant with hats and T-shirts, courtesy of American Global and Skymanor Properties.

The event culminated in an emotional tribute honoring Hall of Fame Coach and Bridgewater resident Chuck Apel. Thirty of Coach Apel’s former players were in the room, a testament to his profound influence. It was Coach Apel who first put Mike Schambach on the path to his celebrated lacrosse coaching career, as he led the 1998 team to the State Championship. He was honored not just for his coaching wins, but for his leadership in raising young men who care deeply about making a positive difference in their families and communities—a legacy Mike Schambach carried forward.

At the heart of this effort is Lindsay Schambach, Mike’s wife. After receiving invaluable support from Imagine following Mike’s untimely death in 2018, Lindsay stepped into the role of Executive Director at Imagine in 2021. Her passion and dedication stem from her own journey, driving her mission to ensure that the estimated 1 out of 13 children in New Jersey who lose a parent or sibling have a place to find hope and community while coping with their grief.

Thanks to the incredible generosity and love demonstrated at the Schambach Strong Golf Outing, over $30,000 was raised! This vital funding will directly empower Imagine to continue offering its crucial grief support programs 100% free of charge to every family that walks through their doors.

This day was a true celebration of Mike’s legacy—a day of strength, connection, and profound compassion, ensuring his caring spirit continues to support those who need it most.

Imagine, A Center for Coping with Loss is a 501c3 that offers training and education on loss and grief to the community and free year-round grief support groups for children ages 3-18 and young adults 19-30 who are coping with a loss due to death. Concurrently, support groups are available for the parents and caregivers of the children in the groups and offered in English and Spanish. For more information, please contact Imagine at 908-264-3100 or info@imaginenj.org or visit our website at www.imaginenj.org.