A festive atmosphere surrounded the fifth annual Barbara Jordan Bowl held recently at Lake Stevens Elementary School in Opa-locka.
The match-up pits young Optimist football teams in matches including six different weight classes. The Lake Stevens Cardinals and the Opa-locka Panthers were the contenders this year and the Panthers emerged victorious.
A large crowd rooted for both teams and Miami-Dade County Commissioner Barbara J. Jordan, after whom the competition is named, moved around the field to meet and greet the fans.
During a break in the game, Jordan donated $500 to support the two teams.
The Beacon Hill Band performed and several service providers were present to provide information on their offerings, including the South Florida Workforce, the Miami-Dade Community Action Agency, Generation NeXXt and and the Orange Bowl Committee Youth Sports Magazine.
The Dade State Attorney’s Office provided fingerprinting for the youths participating and their families.
Overnight Success and Related Urban Development Group were sponsors of the event.
“Community leaders and residents need to continue to support youth activities like sports and other interests so that our children can have positive and productive influences in their lives,” Jordan said. “I’m looking forward to next year’s bowl and having the community rally together to cheer on these wonderful young men who exemplify hard work and sportsmanship.”
Photo: Commissioner Barbara Jordan
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