By Michelle Caceres
Players don’t need a perfect stroke to participate in the Dwayne Schintzius Memorial Golf Classic, just a desire to play and help raise funds to support cancer research, education, advocacy and local patient service programs.
The tournament, which benefits the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center in memory of Dwayne Schintzius, begins with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 14 at the Buckhorn Springs Golf & Country Club, located at 2721 S. Miller Rd. in Valrico.
Schintzius, a professional basketball player and local sports hero, grew up in Brandon where he was a standout player at Brandon High School. He went on to play college ball at the University of Florida then became a first round draft pick, playing nine seasons in the NBA. Schintzius passed away at age 43 on April 15, 2012 after a two-year long battle with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia.
“Dwayne was a friend of mine so I thought this would be a great tribute to him,” said Aliquity, Inc, board member, Heather Smith. “The day after the tournament marks the one-year anniversary of his death.”
Aliquity, Inc., a charitable organization that aims to assist local charitable organizations through an alliance of local businesses, is hosting the event.
Registrations must be received by April 5. The foursome entry fee is $300. Sponsorship opportunities are still available and start at $125. Donations of silent auction and raffle items are also being requested.
“We’re just trying to make a difference in the community,” said Smith. “Moffitt was so good to Dwayne when he needed them and we want to help support them as they help others that are battling cancer.”
Mark your calendars to enjoy a great day on the links and make a difference in the lives of those touched by cancer.
For more information about the event or to register, visit www.aliquity.com.