Play Safe Kickoff Classic set for August 4

PlaySafe, a 501c(3),non-profit organization, providing certified athletic trainers (ATCs) to high schools and many community athletic events in Anderson, Pickens and Oconee counties announces the organization’s second annual Kickoff Golf Classic will salute many legends from the world of Sports on August 4 at The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards.  The event will feature Sam Wyche, Terry Kinard, Patrick Sapp, Kris Benson and 1980 Heisman Trophy winner, George Rogers just to name a few. “We are pleased that we can once again host our annual fundraiser at The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards,” offered Jim Stoker, Chairman of the Board of Play Safe. The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards features eight holes bordering on Lake Keowee and five offering views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. “We will have some great challenges along the course for our participating golfers, with prizes likea Cadillac from the Richard Kay Super Store and a trip to Puerto Rico, just to name few!I believe our participants will enjoy a great day of golf on one of the state’s finest courses, good food, plenty of refreshments and of course, the opportunity to meet and play a few holes with a Legend” added Stoker. Play Safe works to raise funds from corporations, foundations, and the community at large in order to secure full time certified athletic trainers for the high schools in the tri-county area.  This essential service is a critical to the health and safety of our student athletes and historically the services are not provided through funding from the state or school districts. Without Play Safe, our athletes are at a high degree of risk while participating in sports at the high school and community levels. “An estimated 2 million injuries occur each year in high schools. 62% of all reported injuries occur during practice with 23% of injuries occurring to thehead and face of the athletes” according to Play Safe executive director Bob Garguilo.  “The athletic trainers protecting and caring for the high school student athletes are paid for through funds Play Safe has been able to raise through extensive community outreach. Athletic Trainers are experts in sports related injury prevention, assessment and care. Most recently, a high school wrestler was severely injured during a competition, Play Safes’ athletic trainer was on hand to quickly assess and provide care for the athlete, essentially saving his life,” added Garguilo. Play Safe exists to support our schools, parents, businesses and the community at large in an effort to keep our youth and community safe, healthy and active. Play Safe is funded in part by Clemson Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation, AnMed Health and Blue Ridge Orthopaedics. For more information on the 2^nd Annual Kickoff Classic, Play Safe and ways to get involved, visit www.playsafesc.org or call 864-973-4412.