SNL Ice Cream Dream Team member and incoming Salem State University student receives an unforgettable opportunity after founder Carl McFadden makes one important call
RIGHT: Austin meets Savannah Bananas founder Jesse Cole, adding another unforgettable moment to a day inspired by Austin’s high school yearbook dream. Photos courtesy of SNL Youth Academy.
FOXBOROUGH, MA — When Austin Lee graduated from high school, he left behind more than memories in his yearbook. In the section asking students to name their dream job, Austin wrote that he hoped to work for the Savannah Bananas. On Saturday, August 29, that dream became a reality at Gillette Stadium.
Austin is a valued member of SNL Youth Academy, where he runs the SNL ice cream truck and serves on the SNL Ice Cream Dream Team. His role extends beyond serving frozen treats: Austin helps create the friendly, high-energy atmosphere that families associate with SNL events. His enthusiasm, dependability and pride in his work make him an important part of the team.
Austin’s next chapter is already taking shape. Following his high school graduation, he will continue his education at Salem State University. He will carry with him the confidence, responsibility, and people skills he continues to strengthen through his work with SNL.
The opportunity began with a thoughtful connection from Austin’s school. Assistant Principal Jessica Theriault alerted SNL founder Carl McFadden to what Austin had written in his yearbook. When McFadden learned that one of SNL’s staff members had named the Savannah Bananas as his dream employer, he looked for a way to open a door. McFadden contacted the Savannah Bananas and helped secure Austin an opportunity to work at their Gillette Stadium event.
Austin spent the day representing the Savannah Bananas at the merchandise counter, working alongside McFadden, and greeting fans in one of New England’s most recognizable venues. The experience became even more memorable when Austin met Savannah Bananas founder Jesse Cole and had the opportunity to take a photo with him. Meeting the person behind the organization Austin had long admired transformed an already special day into an unforgettable one.
The moment represents more than one exciting day. It reflects SNL Youth Academy’s broader belief that youth development does not end when a program session does. Supporting young people also means seeing their potential, listening to their goals, connecting them with mentors and creating real opportunities for them to grow.
SNL is proud to celebrate Austin as he begins college and carries this unforgettable experience into his next chapter. His story is a reminder that dreams can begin with a few words on a page — and that one person willing to make a call can help turn those words into something real.
ABOUT SNL YOUTH ACADEMY
SNL Youth Academy partners with recreation departments, public and private schools, and community organizations to deliver youth sports, enrichment programs, camps and special events across more than 33 Massachusetts communities. Guided by the belief that every child deserves to have fun, SNL creates welcoming, high-energy experiences that build confidence, connection and lasting memories.
