X-NFL pros return to Riverside on game day to benefit abused children

RIVERSIDE – On Feb. 3, over a dozen former NFL All-Pros will team together with Prevent Child Abuse Riverside for the Fourth Annual Kermit Alexander & NFL Friends “Big Game Event” held at Orange Terrace Community Park, located at 20010 Orange Terrace Parkway in Riverside.

Sponsored in part by Retired Riverside County Supervisor Bob Buster, The City of Riverside, Bud’s Tire Pro and Riverside Community Hospital will be the venue to watch football, meet the former NFL players, get autographs, win prizes and dine on the best tailgate ribs, sliders, burgers and more while raising support for child abuse prevention.

One lucky winner will have the opportunity to kick or throw a Nerf-ball for a $20,000 split with the charity.

The tailgate party is free this year giving families a chance to watch the football game in style while building traditions. Incredible food, provided by local vendors, will be available for purchase or you can bring a picnic and blanket or lawn chairs. Along with providing football entertainment, the tailgate party will include sports bounce houses, which highlight a play area that can keep the kids active during the game.

The VIP Party this year is under a grand tent which includes large screen viewing, free food, preferred seating and non-alcoholic beverages. A no-host wine and beer garden is available. Mingle with former NFL pros who know the game inside and out. Newly-elected Riverside Mayor Rusty Bailey will be out to support the event as well as several members from City Council.

“This is a great way to watch the game,” said Kermit Alexander, a 14-year veteran with the 49’ers, Rams and Eagles and event host. “And it gives us retired players a chance to do something good for our community.”

Other past NFL guests include Dwight Hicks, Jesse Sapolu, Joe Sweet, Craig McEwen, Cedrick Hardman, Marlin Briscoe, Marv Fleming, LeRoy Irvin, Dana Hall, Mike Lansford, Reggie Doss, and Ivory Sully. Returning this year are Sam Cunningham, Leonard Russell and Efren Herrera.

"I am honored to continually participate and support Prevent Child Abuse Riverside County. This event provides major funding for the organization and continually enables them to be able to carry out and execute their mission of protecting our youth,” stated Paul Davis, Ward 4 City Councilmember. “I’ve attended every year and it’s a lot of fun!”

Guests 16 years and older can purchase a VIP Pass for $45 per person, while children (ages 6 to 15) VIP passes are just $10. Any child younger than six is free. Only 350 VIP tickets are available and can be purchased online at http://www.pcafootball.com.

Since 1983, Prevent Child Abuse Riverside County has been the designated council on child abuse and neglect. Just over 2000 children are removed annually from their homes and placed into foster care. We are actively seeking qualified foster families to help support children in crisis. For more information visit our website at http://www.pcariverside.org.

Doors to the event open one hour before schedule kickoff time (approx 3:30 p.m.) Tickets are available online at http://www.pcafootball.com or at the door subject to availability.