Normally, Florida athletes fight teammates for playing time, but on Friday, they'll compete for six worthy causes.
Members of the 2010 football squad will challenge each other in a series of strength competitions at the third annual Gator Charity Challenge at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on Friday as part of their last workout of the summer.
The squad will be divided into six teams that will represent six Shands-affiliated organizations. This year, the event will feature the Ronald McDonald House Charities of North Central Florida, Shands Cancer Hospital, STOP! Children's Cancer, the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association and March of Dimes, said Kari Hodgkiss, a representative of the University Athletic Association.
There are 19 players on each team, said Scott Holsopple, assistant director of strength conditioning. Each team member was chosen by Holsopple and Mickey Marotti, the Gators' strength and conditioning coordinator.
"We chose the teams based on their character and skill," Holsopple said.
The six squads will be led by Ahmad Black, Brandon Antwine, Lorenzo Edwards, A.J. Jones, Terron Sanders and Duke Lemmens in the night's contests, which consist of a sled push, obstacle course, farmer's hold and tug of war.
Pledge cards will be available at the West Concourse for fans to donate to the six causes, said Denver Parler, assistant director of communications of UAA. No cash or checks will be accepted.
About $11,000 was raised last year, but increasing awareness is the ultimate goal, Hodgkiss said.
The challenge is free to the public and will begin with team introductions at 7 p.m.
