Rotary South’s 29th Annual All-Star Classic Dec. 4 and 6
Mark your calendars for a Southwest Florida tradition when the Rotary South All-Star Classic returns in its 29th year on Dec. 4 and 6.
Rotary Club of Fort Myers South kicks off the two-day event at 6 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 4, at Fort Myers High School with an awards banquet honoring Lee County’s top senior football players, cheerleaders and coaches. On Wednesday, Dec. 6, the popular football game between North and South high school all-star players will take place under the lights at Fort Myers High School’s Sam Sirianni Field in Edison Stadium.
About 300 players, cheerleaders, coaches, families, Rotarians and community leaders are expected to attend the awards banquet. In addition to recognizing players’ and coaches’ talent and dedication, the banquet sets the tone for the game ahead, with inspiration and motivation from a keynote speaker to make a lasting impact on all attendees.
The annual All-Star Classic football game showcases the best senior players from across Lee County’s public and private high school football teams. Participating players and cheerleaders are nominated by their head coaches, and become eligible to receive recognition as an MVP or scholar-athlete. The players come together on teams, competing against each other as North vs. South, representing one of the final challenges these players will face in their high school football careers. Each of the football players and cheerleaders is presented with a customized commemorative ring or charm.
Sanibel resident and football enthusiast John Carrigan founded the Rotary South All-Star Classic in 1989. This event was the first countywide organized football game in the state of Florida. Carrigan’s vision of football paired with fundraising has continued since then under the continued leadership of Rotary Club of Fort Myers South. Proceeds from the event are used to support college scholarships, as well as grants for local community organizations.
The Rotary Club of Fort Myers South is seeking donations and sponsors to help cover the cost of this annual event. Area businesses or individuals can sponsor the event, a team, player or cheerleader. Tickets to the banquet are $35. For more information on sponsorship or ticket sales, please contact Suzi Ward at (239) 834-8643 or szward22@gmail.com.