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Former USC Heisman Trophy Winner Matt Leinart Hosts His 7th Annual Charity Bowl

Darian Nourian |
July 19, 2013 | 12:31 p.m. PDT

Staff Writer

Matt Leinart poses for the cameras. (Darian Nourian)
Matt Leinart poses for the cameras. (Darian Nourian)
NFL Quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart hosted the Matt Leinart Foundation's Seventh Annual "Celebrity Bowl" at Lucky Strike Lanes in Hollywood on Thursday, July 18. The former USC quarterback not only brought together athletes and celebrities alike for a fun night of bowling, but also for a great cause. 

An estimated amount of $50,000 were raised and all proceeds from the event would go to The Matt Leinart Foundation, which is committed to providing resources and opportunities to support disadvantaged youth through learning centers, sporting activities and wish-granting.  The Foundation builds character development and helps children maximize academic and personal achievement. 

The red carpet was rolled out for an array of celebrities like American Idol's Kimberly Caldwell, Dancing with the Star's winner Melissa Rycroft and "Dallas" star Josh Henderson. Many current and former athletes were also on hand including former NFL player Hank Baskett, Jacksonville Jaguar tight end Marcedes Lewis and former Los Angeles Laker Darius MorrisHead USC football coach Lane Kiffin even made an appearance with his wife, Layla. 

"It really goes unnoticed how many celebrities and athletes actually get out and give back," said Baskett. "Matt's not only a great friend, but he's just a great person, and I'm glad that I can come out and support."

The event included a bowling competition in which 10 teams of six people, comprised of two celebrities and four team members, competed for a championship. It also included a silent auction, featuring celebrity memorabillia, from signed jerseys to an actual Heisman trophy. 

Leinart, who is currently a free agent after being drafted in 2006 by the Arizona Cardinals, is still awaiting a call from NFL teams to see where he will land during training camp. He most recently played for the Oakland Raiders in 2012 and was previously with the Houston Texans. 

In 2003 and 2004, he quarterbacked USC to two AP national championships, while winning the 2004 Heisman trophy. When asked about what he thought of next year's USC football team, Leinart sounded relatively optimistic. 

"I think they're solid and are going to do okay," Leinart said. "Last year was a tough season and it hasn't been easy for them with the scholarships, but hopefully they will turn it around. You can't count them out and they will be back, whether it's next year or the year after." 

The two-time Archie Griffin Award winner also had some positive things to say about former USC quarterback Matt Barkley, who is now with the Philadelphia Eagles. 

"I've known Matt [Barkley] since eight grade, and he is a really tough and smart kid," Leinart said. "He's played a lot of football at a high level and I think he will be fine and he knows that I will always be there for him." 

All in all, it was a great night of fun, bowling, and charity for a great cause and all of these athletes and celebrities look forward to when Leinart hosts his event again next summer. 

 

Reach Staff Writer Darian Nourian here.



 

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