Tampa Bay Buccaneers S John Lynch and his wife, Linda, will recognize recipients of the Lynch Family Legacy Scholarship and Star of the Year Award at the Inaugural "Salute the Stars" Luncheon on Thursday, May 20 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The event, which is sponsored by the Lynch family and the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, will take place at the West Club Lounge at Raymond James Stadium during the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce`s monthly meeting. Lynch will emcee the event, and Buccaneers Head Coach Tony Dungy and LB Derrick Brooks will present awards.
Last year, Lynch joined forces with the Tampa Bay Sports Commission to establish the Lynch Family Legacy Scholarship to benefit student athletes. Through the scholarship program, the Lynch family and the TBSC provide financial assistance for two Hillsborough County high school seniors to use at the college of their choice. Students nominated for the scholarship must adhere to certain criteria, including achieving a minimum GPA and participating in interscholastic and community service activities. They must also receive letters of recommendation from teachers, coaches and/or school administrators and demonstrate financial need.
Lynch`s "Star of the Month" program, which he started last year, rewards Hillsborough County middle and high school student-athletes for their athletic and academic achievements, outstanding sportsmanship and community involvement. Throughout the 1998-99 school year, Star of the Month winners have received certificates of achievement, Buccaneers merchandise and the opportunity to appear with Lynch on his television show that aired on FOX 13 during the 1998 football season. The Star of the Year winners, one male and one female, were selected from the 1998-99 monthly winners.
"There are hundreds of student-athletes in our community who are not only great athletes, but who work hard in school and make significant contributions to both their teams and their communities," Lynch said. "Linda and I created these programs in an effort to honor and encourage well-rounded students, and we believe these young athletes should be recognized and motivated to do their best in all aspects of their lives."
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Jenny Egger Community Relations Media Coordinator Tampa Bay Buccaneers 813-870-2700, ext. 296
