"We are extremely honored to be partnering with Dick Vitale and the V Foundation, as well as the Lightning Foundation, to raise money for pediatric cancer research," Cooper said. "At some point in a person's lifetime, cancer negatively affects someone close to you. Coop's Catch for Kids was created to help hopefully put an end to that. It is remarkable to watch the strength these young children put forth in their fight against this horrible disease. Please join me, the Tampa Bay Lightning and other special guest celebrities to stand beside them in their fight! We are looking forward to an outstanding day on the water where every dollar raised goes to fight pediatric cancer."
Coop's Catch for Kids will launch from the Tampa Convention Center docks and will consist of a catch and release inshore grand slam tournament. Anglers will be fishing for snook, redfish and trout. All fish will be measured in inches. Each boat will feature a Lightning player or celebrity. Fishing will conclude at 1 p.m.
On Monday, October 10, Cooper will host an anglers' party at the Marriott Waterside. All participants will be invited to attend along with a guest. Boat pairings will be selected during the party. World-renowned basketball broadcaster Dick Vitale will be in attendance at the party as well.
Following the tournament there will be a reception at Hattricks in downtown Tampa where awards will be given out. Prizes will be handed out for the first, second and third place catches of each species, as well as one overall grand slam winner and largest individual fish (in inches). The reception will also include silent and live auctions.
A limited number of boats are available and start as low as $2,500 for a pair of anglers. Those interested should contact Daniel Lozada at 813.301.6527 for more information.
