Shawn Nowlin shawn.nowlin@ourvalley.org
The recent fundraiser football game featuring police officers, firefighters and sheriff deputies at the Salem Football Stadium on June 1 may not have registered many points – the Roanoke Rampage defeated the Charlotte Cobras 18 to 13 – but it did raise over $1,000 for local charities that support underprivileged children throughout Southwest Virginia.
Tickets for the game were $5.00 for adults. Children eight and under were admitted for free. Amongst the players was a wide range of football experience. Many played on the collegiate level. Some never made their high school roster. One thing that they all share in common, however, is making a difference in the community.
Bigs in Blue (BIB) is a mentoring program that connects local youth with police officers. For the 2019 season, the Roanoke Rampage chose BIB as their primary charity. They also donated money to Total Action for Progress (TAP) and provided food to children throughout the Roanoke Valley each month.
Of all the competitors who got on the field last Saturday, perhaps no one had more fun than Greg St. Clair.
Roanoke Rampage players discussing a play during a team huddle.
“Being able to compete against my friends for a worthy cause is always an enjoyable experience,” said St. Clair, the Roanoke Rampage President. “I am responsible for managing everything about the organization from monthly meetings to ensuring everyone’s safety. The players and organizers are on the same page. Every member is involved with public safety.”
Vice President of Operations Raymond Sherwood credits the community and Board of Directors for what Roanoke Rampage has been able to accomplish over the last decade.
“Without the Board, there is no doubt in my mind that the organization would not be what it is today,” he said. “As far as the community goes, they help us fulfill our mission of serving others. We are so thankful when people come to the games or make small financial contributions.”
Last June, the Roanoke Rampage traveled to Pennsylvania to play the Philadelphia Blue Flames in the championship event. Despite a valiant effort, they lost by 14 points, 21 to 7. By defeating the Charlotte Cobras, they have an opportunity to win this year’s championship in Los Angeles, California.
“We would like to extend a huge heartfelt thank you to all of our sponsors, fans and friends. We have had another amazing year, and we could not do any of it without their support. Hopefully, when we return from California, we will do so as champions,” St. Clair said.
