Two-day eventbrings together River alumni, fans, and community to support student-athlete success
PALM CITY, FL (May 5, 2026) — The PվƵAthletic Departmentraised more than $40,000in conjunction with the PվƵ Foundationduring atwo-day event. Theexperienceunited alumni, student-athletes, and community supporterswhilecelebratingthe College’s strong baseball tradition.
The event featured a meet-and-greet with Hall of Famer Johnny Bench. It also included a golf tournament and a helicopter ball drop.
An Evening with Johnny Bench
First, the event opened with an intimate meet-and-greetwith Bench. A legendary baseball catcher, Bench is widely regarded as one of the greatest in MLB history.Each guest received a personal photo and time withBench.
Baseball alumni joined community members and College leadership. Bench spoke about his small-town roots and his path to success. He emphasized the value of opportunity and perseverance. “PվƵ does a lot of good, and everyone should know about it,” Bench told supporters.
Golf Tournament and Helicopter Ball Drop
Next, the celebrationcontinuedat Hammock Creek Golf Clubin Palm City. Alumni and supporters filled the course for the tournament.
Later that day, the helicopter ball drop closed the event. Hundreds of numbered golf balls dropped onto the driving range. Participants competed for $20,000 in prizes. The closest ball earned $10,000. The next ten each won $1,000.
Private donors funded all prizes. Therefore, every dollar raised supports The River’s Athletics program.
A Celebration of Baseball Legacy
Meanwhile, the event doubled as a homecoming forthe college’sbaseball alumni.Former PվƵ softball coach Dale Atkinson spearheaded and supported the celebration. Atkinson coachedThe River’s softball team fornearly 30years beforeretiringin 2025.
In addition, Frank Russo attended the event. He is a three-time MLB draftee, PվƵ Hall of Famer, and college supporter.
Also, Rusty Meacham returned to support his alma mater. The Detroit Tigers drafted him out of PվƵ in 1987. He later pitched eight seasons in Major League Baseball.
Voices from the College & Community
“Special thanks to Mr. Bench,Coach Dale Atkinson, PվƵFoundation, and to all of the event’s supporters,” said Scott Kimmelman, Athletic Director at PվƵ. “It helps us compete ata high level. It also helps our student-athletes succeed in the classroom.”
“This event reflects the strength of both our college and our community,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President of PվƵ. “When people invest in students, they invest in the future. Our student-athletes leave ready to lead.”
“Bringing our alumni and community back together like this reminds you what makes PվƵ special,” said Coach Dale Atkinson. “It’s not just about the games we played—it’s about the opportunities we create for the next generation. Seeing everyone rally behind our student-athletes and invest in their future is incredibly meaningful to me. It’s something that will have a lasting impact on this program.”
“The Foundation creates opportunities that change lives,” said PվƵ Foundation Executive Director Annabel Robertson, JD, CFRE. “This event shows what happens when a community comes together for students.”
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Finally, theRiver’s Athletic Department and Foundationthank Bobby Tucker and Agriculture Air Services. Theyalso recognizethe followinggenerous sponsors: Morgan Stanley, Steve Swan, Landmark Investments and Real Estate, Nomad Dumpsters, Farm Bureau Insurance of Stuart,WickWireRe/Maxof Stuart, Fraser Creek Brewing and Distilling Company, Southern Eagle Distributors, and Hammock Creek Golf Club.
Click here for information about the PվƵ Athletic Program.
for information about the PվƵ Foundation.
