Wayzata man follows lead of others to organize equipment drive

Inspired by others who have done the same, a Wayzata man is organizing a sports equipment drive for soldiers serving overseas.

Tom Docken first read about the efforts of Dan Sundt, of Edina, a month ago.

Sundt collected some used golf equipment for a co-worker who was stationed in Iraq.

Quickly, Sundt found others who were willing to donate equipment and a FedEx employee, who happened to be a Vietnam veteran, willing to give him a break on shipping costs.

"I thought, 'How cool is that?'" said Docken.

Docken got in contact with Sundt, and John Heubach, the FedEx employee, to see how he could help.

From there, Docken decided to hold his own sports equipment drive to benefit soldiers.

As manager at Rockler Woodworking, he decided to ask people to bring their used golf clubs or any other sports equipment to the Minnetonka store.

He sees it as a simple way to support the troops.

"I feel for them being over there," said Docken. "There are a lot of problems with morale. They're bored and they're fighting over the same magazine."

The drive, which officially takes place June 11-14, already received enough donations to warrant a pick up last week.

Docken is asking for any sports equipment, although he recommends lighter-weight items like softball, baseballs and footballs, as well as golf clubs, bats and gloves.

He figures many people will be excited to get rid of equipment sitting in their garages, not being put to use.

After collecting the items, Docken said he'll go to www.anysoldier.com to find soldiers who could use the equipment.

The Web site lists soldiers' requests for items, varying from hygiene products to snacks to sports equipment.

After the sporting goods are sent to the soldier, he or she distributes the equipment to other soldiers who receive the least amount of care packages and mail.

Docken's drive received the support of the National Guard, which agreed to make an appearance at Rockler Woodworking.

Docken said another company agreed to let him use its 48-foot trailer to transport the equipment.

He said he doesn't know how many donations he should expect, but early indications show strong local support for the drive.

Before the drive officially began almost 50 baseballs, footballs and basketballs were donated, as well as several sets of golf clubs, according to Docken.

This isn't the first time Rockler Woodworking has supported the troops.

Last October, the store taught customers how to make wooden pens and then sent the pens with notes of support to soldiers.

Throughout the year, the store also holds food and toy drives to benefit local non-profits.

"I'm just trying to do something to help," said Docken. "I'm just a guy that wanted to do something good."

Although the official drive ends June 14, which is Flag Day, the store will continue to accept donations.

Sports equipment will be collected at Rockler Woodworking, 12995 Ridgedale Drive, in Minnetonka. For additional information call 952-542-0111. Hockey equipment, heavy items and golf bags will not be accepted.