The high school football combine at Raymond James Stadium is one of the important events the Tampa Bay Sports Commission - with the Glazer Family Foundation's help - makes happen
Continuing a 30-year commitment made by Buccaneers Owner-President Malcolm Glazer in 1997, the Glazer Family Foundation presented the Tampa Bay Sports Commission with a $62,000 check on Wednesday
Each year, the Tampa Bay Sports Commission (TBSC) helps bring to life hundreds of amateur and youth sporting events in the Bay area. And each year the Glazer Family Foundation supports the Commission's efforts with a critical donation.
On Saturday, those two commitments coincided at the TBSC's annual high school football combine at Raymond James Stadium.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Director of Community Relations Miray Holmes joined TBSC representatives at the combine to present the Commission with a check for $62,000 from the Glazer Family Foundation. The contribution is part of a 30-year commitment Buccaneers Owner/President Malcolm Glazer made to the TBSC in 1997.
TBSC Executive Director Rob Higgins expressed his gratitude for the donation on behalf of the Commission.
"Thank you to the Glazer Family Foundation for all that you continue to provide for our community and our children with this contribution," said Higgins. "You are making a tremendous difference in several kids' lives and we could not be more grateful."
Malcolm Glazer's initial commitment to the TBSC stated that the Buccaneers would contribute $7,500 for every Buccaneers victory during the previous regular season. Following the 2006 season, the Glazers and the Commission agreed to a fixed contribution of $62,000 annually. The Buccaneers and the Glazer Family Foundation understand the importance of supporting the Commission's efforts in the Bay area.
"The Buccaneers are proud to continue their tremendous relationship with the Tampa Bay Sports Commission," said Buccaneers Vice President of Business Administration Brian Ford. "The Commission plays an integral role in our community and the Buccaneers are excited to be a part of its outstanding service."
The Tampa Bay Sports Commission will use the funds to support such annual events as all-star football, soccer and basketball games and Saturday's Combine. The combine, now in its sixth year, has helped produce over 125 college scholarships and serves as one of the Bay area's main athletic scholarship generators.
From 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the stadium, more than 350 rising high school seniors from across the southeastern United States, with a primary focus on Hillsborough County, will showcase their football skills to college coaches from across the nation in hopes of earning an athletic scholarship.
Overall, the TBSC's mission is to attract, promote and/or organize major amateur sporting events and grassroots youth sports programs that foster the ongoing development and quality of life for the entire Tampa Bay area.
