In a heartwarming and active celebration of the upcoming Veteran's Day holiday, former Tampa Bay Buccaneer, Mike Alstott, and the Mike Alstott Family Foundation teamed up with Mike Delancey Jr. and his Wounded Warriors Abilities Ranch (WWAR) for a memorable day of flag football, drills, and camaraderie. The event took place on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at the Pinellas Park Youth Soccer Complex in Pinellas Park, Florida.
The purpose of this event was to promote the mission of WWAR, providing a fun and engaging atmosphere for local Veterans to come together and participate in friendly athletic competition. Mike Alstott, a football legend, took on the role of quarterback for both teams, creating an exciting and inclusive environment for the participants.
The day began with registration and a meet-and-greet session from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., allowing everyone to connect and share stories. Then, the action-packed flag football game and drills commenced from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Veterans, whether they were seasoned athletes or trying their hand at flag football for the first time, gave it their all, demonstrating the resilience and determination that characterizes their service.
Following the game, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., participants and their guests enjoyed a post-game feast while mingling with Mike Alstott. The event provided an opportunity for Veterans and their families to bond over shared experiences and create lasting memories.
The Wounded Warriors Abilities Ranch and Park, founded in 2013 by Wounded Warrior Mike Delancey Jr., offers a safe and reflective environment where Veterans can engage in various recreational activities. Mike Delancey Jr., a Pinellas Park resident and a survivor of a critical sniper attack during military combat in Iraq, founded the WWAR as a way to support and uplift his fellow Veterans in their journey toward recovery and well-being.
The Mike Alstott Family Foundation, on the other hand, was established to extend assistance to families and children, helping them realize their full potential through a variety of events, assistance programs, and celebrations.
The collaboration between these two organizations not only celebrated the spirit of camaraderie and resilience but also highlighted the importance of supporting our Veterans as they transition into civilian life. The event served as a reminder that our Veterans, who have made tremendous sacrifices for our nation, deserve our gratitude and support as they continue their journey.
The day was a testament to the power of community and the positive impact that sports and camaraderie can have on individuals' lives, especially those who have served our country with honor and dedication. Mike Alstott, Mike Delancey Jr., and all the local Veteran participants, along with their families and guests, shared a memorable and inspiring day at the Pinellas Park Youth Soccer Complex.
As we approach Veteran's Day, events like these remind us to honor and celebrate the courage and resilience of our Veterans. They remind us that coming together as a community to support and uplift those who have served is a powerful way to express our gratitude and appreciation. Mike Alstott, Mike Delancey Jr., and their organizations have shown us that every day is an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of our Veterans, and for that, we salute them.
