PHOENIX -- A benefit will be held this weekend in memory of a Phoenix high school football player who died after a game last fall.

Ridge Barden was involved in a deadly head-to-head collision during a game against Homer in October. The high school junior was hurt in the third quarter of the game and later taken to the hospital.

Doctors later learned that Barden suffered a subdural hematoma, where blood collects on the surface of the brain, after the helmet to helmet hit.

A benefit will be held in his honor this Saturday from 12noon to 5 p.m. at the VFW Post 5540 at 70 Culvert Street in Phoenix. The event is $10 per person and includes chicken BBQ and/or hot dogs, salt potatoes, salad, roll, chips and a drink.

Organizers plan to use the money raised to start the Ridge Barden Academic Scholarship Award and help the Phoenix Football Boosters.

You can also send donations to: The Ridge Barden Benefit Fund C/O Fulton Savings Bank 75 South First St. Fulton NY 13069, or bring it in to any Fulton Savings Bank location.

If you are interested in donating or helping the day of the Benefit, contact: Jo Anne Pietrowicz at (315) 317-1069 or jpietrowicz@twcny.rr.com, Tammie Harke at (315) 857-1840 or tamhrk@aol.com or Linda Saarie at (315) 380-6988 or petriel@msn.com.