Members of the Orlando Predators football team and front office staff spent Saturday afternoon showing support for the United States Armed Forces and their families at Winter Park FreedomFest, where on display was the Rolling 911 Memorial along with food vendors and amusements for children.

The event was organized to thank deployed troops and their families from Florida for their service. Gift cards, diapers and other items were collected to be distributed by non-profit organizations on behalf of Operation Homefront, which provides emergency financial help to families of Florida service members and wounded veterans.

Silent auction items were also donated by the Preds in an effort to help raise money for local military families.

“We always take the opportunity to show our support for those that sacrifice so much to defend our freedom,” said Keith Recine, Predators Corporate Sponsorship Coordinator. “These brave men and women do so much for us and we should do as much as we can for them and their families when the opportunity arises.”

The Predators were also represented by staff members Marlon McClary and Juan Aguilera, Preds defensive lineman Bert Whigham, and promotional team members Brittney and Gwen.

“I always enjoy coming to these types of events,” said Whigham. “It always turns out to be a lot of fun.”

Whigham was on hand to talk with fans and sign autographs. Brittney and Gwen helped distribute schedule cards and encouraged local fans to take part in the upcoming Arena Football League season.

Event organizer Teri Boardman said the Winter Park FreedomFest will generate substantial funds to help Florida service members and their families.

“Operation Homefront is such a great organization and necessary to the overall defense of our nation. We are proud to put on this event and help such deserving individuals that risk everything to defend our liberty,” Boardman said.

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