WILMINGTON-The annual showcase event that gives high school football fans a sneak peak of their favorite teams from across the Wilmington area returns to Legion Stadium on Friday, Aug. 12 for the 30th Annual BB&T Jamboree. More than $1.2 million has been raised since its inception in 1989 as the prep scrimmage serves as a fundraiser for 10 southeastern North Carolina high schools and student scholarships.
“This annual event highlights the excitement and anticipation for a run at conference titles and state playoffs for the 10 area high schools,” said Andrew Cooke, BB&T Jamboree co-chairman. “It is one of the most exciting high school events in the region, with a playoff atmosphere to help kick-off the season.”
Cheerleaders from each of the 10 schools representing at the jamboree will kick things off at 4:30 p.m., with scrimmages set to get underway at 5:30 p.m. The match-ups in order include: North Brunswick vs. South Columbus; New Hanover vs. Wallace-Rose Hill; Laney vs. Whiteville; Ashley vs. South Brunswick; Hoggard vs. West Brunswick. Each game consists of two, 12-minute periods with a running clock.
The tradition of the jamboree extends many decades as seen during Tuesday’s luncheon held at the Terraces at Sir Tyler, off Military Cutoff Road. Cooke, along with coaches Larry Brock, Aashad Yeoman and Craig Underwood competed in the annual showcase during the 90s as former high school football players.
Former New Hanover High School Quarterback Burke Estes (’15) was also in attendance just days before heading practice ahead of his freshman season at Randolph Macon College in Virginia. New Hanover alum and former Boston Red Sox outfielder Trot Nixon has also been a staple at the jamboree since his days at quarterback for the Wildcats.
“I want to thank BB&T for hosting this event and making it what it is today,” said Underwood. “The jamboree was always something we looked forward to as players and now to be the head coach at Hoggard and on the sidelines for this event is special.”
Proceeds from last year’s event totaled $47,914, enough to fund 20, $1,000 scholarships (two per school). Participating schools also received an additional $2,000 for their general operating budgets.
Over the last three decades, 566 student scholarships totaling $552,000 have been awarded, $51,150 in cheerleader awards, and $594,912 in money given back to the schools.
Tickets to the BB&T Jamboree are $7 at the gate. Port City Daily will have interviews, highlights and photos from Friday’s showcase.
Andrew Cooke, Co-chair of #BB&T Football Jamboree talks about 30th year of showcase event! #ILM @PortCityDaily.com pic.twitter.com/3EWJocbxVF
— Joe Catenacci (@JoeCats19) August 9, 2016
