Retired NFL player to host second ‘Buckeye Blast’ in Ohio to help young outdoors people

Greenville, Ohio — The Buckeye Blast is back after a successful inaugural year.

The Light Foundation, co-founded by New England Patriots Hall of Famer and three-time Super Bowl champion Matt Light, will host its second annual fundraising event, The Buckeye Blast, on May 12, at Delaware, Ohio’s five-star Black Wing Shooting Center.

This fundraising event welcomes outdoor enthusiasts of all experience levels for a day of competitive clay shooting offered in squads of four, interactive shooting experiences like flame throwers, live entertainment, as well as food.

Guests can also enjoy raffles, silent and live auctions featuring exclusive items, and an exhibition tent showcasing participating businesses – many offering giveaways and items that are additional to what is included in the attendees’ registration bags.

“There’s truly something for everyone,” said Light. “Guests will have an unforgettable experience while supporting a great cause. We always have a few surprises up our sleeves, too.”

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Proceeds from The Buckeye Blast will benefit the Light Foundation’s youth initiatives, which help close to 8,000 participants become R.E.A.L. (Responsible, Ethical, Accountable Leaders) by developing the skills, values, and mindset needed to create meaningful and productive futures.

Established in 2001 by Matt and his wife, Susie, the Foundation provides hands-on outdoor experiences that build self-confidence and leadership skills to help shape future generations of responsible, motivated adults.

The Buckeye Blast features appearances from notable athletes, personalities, and celebrities. Past participants have included Major League Baseball players Tombo Martin and Jon Niese, MMA and UFC veteran Matt Brown, former NFL players and Ohio State Buckeye alumni Matt Finkes, and Ohio State Buckeye alumnus and sports radio host Bobby Carpenter. The event will also include a live performance by acclaimed country singer-songwriter Tyler Farr.

“We are looking to make The Buckeye Blast the premier clay shooting competition in the Midwest,” Light said.

Ralph and Phylis Brumbaugh, Event Risk Security Services, Smith and Wesson, and Jon Coomer Investment Management have already committed to sponsoring the event.

Companies interested in sponsorship opportunities should contact Troy Eden at troy@mattlight72.com. Space is limited and filling quickly, and participants are encouraged to register early at www.mattlight72.com to secure a spot.

Founded in 2001, The Light Foundation’s mission is to take young people out of their everyday environments and provide them with unique opportunities that ignite their passion, purpose, and motivation to succeed.

Its signature program, the Leadership Academy, offers young people a variety of outdoor and hands-on learning activities that support their social and emotional learning; build strong good character; equip them with the tools and skills needed to start their leadership journey, and stay with them every step of the way.

The Leadership Academy curriculum consists of Camp Vohokase, Timber Frame Camp, youth turkey hunts, leadership workshops, The LIGHT Project, All-Conference Football Camp, and Chenoweth Trails Family Programming.

Since its inception, The Light Foundation has raised more than $10 million for these programs and initiatives. For more information, visit the organization’s website.