Florida defensive end Justin Trattou has accepted an invitation to play in the 86th East-West Shrine Game. The Game will be held Jan. 22, 2011 at the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando, kicking off at 4 p.m. EST.
Trattou joins an elite list of football greats, such as John Elway, Tom Brady, Brett Favre, and 62 NFL Hall of Famers, who have played in the East-West Shrine Game, America’s longest-running college all-star football game.
“The East-West Shrine Game has always fielded players among college football’s best,” said East-West Shrine Game Executive Director Harold Richardson. “With all 32 NFL teams represented by GMs, coaches and scouts during game week, our players have the terrific opportunity to showcase their talents and get their first glimpse of life in the NFL … ‘Just Like on Sunday.’”
Trattou had a stellar senior season for the Gators, being named team captain and recording 57 tackles, including 35 solo, and led the Gators in 2010 with 12 tackles for loss. He returned an interception 35 yards for a touchdown against USF this fall. Overall, the Ramsey, N.J. native recorded 121 tackles for his career.
Trattou becomes just the eighth Gator under Urban Meyer to accept an invitation to play in the East-West Shrine Game. LB Ryan Stamper, OL Drew Miller, WR Dallas Baker, DE Steven Harris, QB Chris Leak, DB Vernell Brown and OL Randy Hand all played in the East-West Shrine Game after donning the Orange and Blue.
Those who would like to support Trattou and the East-West Shrine Game can do the following:
o Attend the East-West Shrine Game in Orlando on Jan. 22 at 4 p.m. EST
o Tune in to the NFL Network on Jan. 22 at 4 p.m. EST to watch the live broadcast
o Sign up as a volunteer online at http://www.shrinegame.com
For more information about the East-West Shrine Game, please visit http://www.shrinegame.com.