Snow Golf Outing Raises Money for Charity

Sixers guard Eric Snow hosted 80 golfers in his first annual Eric’s Challenge Golf Outing at Commonwealth National Golf Course on Sept. 15 to benefit Sixers Charities. While the weather was overcast and the rain stayed away for the most part, it did not dampen the mood or scores as everyone was there to raise money for charity.

“It feels good because of what you are doing it for,” Snow said. “You are doing it for a charity that helps people under different circumstances, different situations. I am thankful that people are willing to come out, play, have some fun and lend a helping hand.”

The golfers in the scramble style tournament included teammates Kyle Korver and Todd MacCulloch along with Head Coach Randy Ayers. Local companies such as Herr's Foods, Pepsi, Graham Company, Mitchell and Ness, and Acme Markets sponsored foursomes on the par 71 course that has been used for PGA ProAm Tournament events. Sixers President and General Manager Billy King swung by and tooled around the course in a golf cart greeting the foursomes.

“(Snow has) done a lot,” MacCulloch said. “He embodies what the 76ers are about. I think the best thing about Eric, is that he’s not just concerned about his own family, but he’s concerned about other fathers and other sons and their relationship with their kids. He’s involved in a whole bunch of things that are great. So the best that we could do is come out and support him. We can certainly lead from his example, and I think the Sixers have done a nice job of getting behind him and teaming up with (him).”

Golfers received door prizes such as autographed photos, gift packs, and bobbleheads in addition to a photograph of their foursome with Snow. There was also a silent auction with Snow and Allen Iverson jerseys. Nobody took home the Gary Barbera Prowler or the Fairway Auto Group Escalade for a hole in one.

“I like to play,” Snow, who just started playing golf two years ago, said. “I knew (the golf outing) would help. I knew this was a way I could reach people, meet new people and hopefully expand and grow and be something every year.”

The 2003-04 season will mark the third season of Eric’s Challenge and the second to incorporate both his Steal and Assist program and the Father-Son One-On-One components.

“If you met his parents you would see why it’s a priority for him to give back,” Ayers said. “I think that he understands it's important for the community support for his family as well. You give, you get as well.”