Bridgestone Retail Operations (BSRO), a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas (Bridgestone), recently partnered with Tight End University (TEU) to host a special training event for youth from Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee at Lipscomb Academy.
Thirty area Club youth were given the opportunity to learn from league players and Bridgestone leaders through technique drills, a flag football game, and a “locker room talk” that discussed the importance of academics, serving the community and achieving goals.
At the end of the event, leaders from BSRO and TEU announced a combined $50,000 donation to Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee to help accelerate efforts to engage and support teens in Nashville and surrounding communities.
“We were grateful to join forces with an incredible roster of players right here in our hometown to give area Boys & Girls Club youth an unforgettable experience,” said Marko Ibrahim, president, Bridgestone Retail Operations. “A special thanks to the generosity of our BSRO customers and teammates who continue to support our Boys & Girls Club partnership at our 2,200 stores nationwide. I have no doubt that this donation will create new opportunities for Nashville-area teens, and that its impact will be felt long after today.”
The event and donation announcement took place at Lipscomb University on June 25, the last day of the three-day TEU summit. Recently launched by NFL stars Travis Kelce, George Kittle and Greg Olsen, TEU is meant to provide opportunities for league tight ends to work, train and learn from fellow players.
As the Official Tire of the NFL® with its headquarters in Nashville, Bridgestone was proud to partner with the players to support TEU and extend its impact into the local community through BSRO’s support of Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA).
"It was critical to George, Greg, and Travis that TEU made a lasting impact in the local Nashville community,” said Peter Raskin, Rubicon Talent. “When Bridgestone mentioned their long-standing relationship with BGCA, we jumped at the opportunity to support them. Seeing the kids interact with the players was a highlight of the event and something the players truly enjoyed. We look forward to coming back next year!”
The $50,000 donation from TEU and BSRO will support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee in their efforts to accelerate their outreach and support for local teens.
“Providing our youth with safe spaces, access to positive adult role models, and experiences such as this one is part of the Boys & Girls Clubs’ formula for positive youth outcomes,” said Eric Higgs, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee. “Big thanks to BSRO and TEU for making this possible for our youth – it’s an experience they’ll never forget!”