A community came together today to honor a football player who died last fall. Ridge Barden lost his life during a high school football game after he sustained a helmet-to-helmet injury.
A benefit was held in his honor at the VFW Post in Phoenix. Dozens of people came out for the event, which featured food, music, and raffles. The money raised will help start the Ridge Barden Academic Scholarship and will help the Phoenix Football Boosters.
Organizers say they were surprised at the large turnout for the event. High school football players from other schools also showed their support. People who knew Ridge say they were honored how many people were there to remember their friend.
"He was all around a great person," says Jesse Spencer, who was friends with Ridge. "He'd do anything for anyone as long as he felt that it was right. He was a great friend."
Donations can made payable to "The Ridge Barden Benefit Fund" and sent to Fulton Savings Bank, 75 South First St., Fulton, NY 13069, or they can be brought in to any Fulton Savings Bank location.
