Former Ohio State quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith is organizing the inaugural World Series of Cornhole and Legend Shootout Tournament, bringing together college football legends for a competition that emphasizes mental health advocacy. The event will feature former Buckeye greats competing against Texas Longhorn icons including fellow Heisman winner Ricky Williams and Vince Young in a unique showcase of skill and camaraderie. Smith emphasized that the event serves a deeper purpose beyond the cornhole boards, stating that it is about competition, camaraderie, and creating new spaces for athletes to connect while addressing the real issue of mental health.
The event directly supports mental health initiatives through Smith's work with the Richard Swinsey Inner City Kids and Youth Foundation, which provides resources and mentorship to underserved youth across Ohio and nationwide. Smith explained that mental health is just as important as physical health, noting that if mental health isn't where it needs to be, it can lead to stress, anxiety, or worse, and the goal is to stop that cycle by providing support and tools for young people to succeed both on and off the field. Proceeds from the event will benefit multiple player-driven foundations and charities, including Smith's mental health initiatives, the Vince Young Foundation, the Ted Ginn Jr. Foundation, and Ricky Williams' programs, with fundraising efforts led by Cowboy Auctioneer Heath Hale during live auctions between games.
The two-day event schedule includes Friday's Legends Day featuring a Heisman Toast from 3:00–5:00 PM at The Athletic Club of Columbus and the VIP Cornhole Tournament beginning at 6:00 PM at The Railhouse at East Market. Saturday's activities include a VIP Tailgate Experience starting at 8:00 AM near the stadium and a post-game after-party at Draft Day on Dublin Road. Tickets for the event are available through the official World Series of Cornhole website and directly from the venue. This initiative highlights how former athletes are leveraging their platforms to address critical issues like mental health, using sports as a vehicle for community engagement and support.
