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A recent charity poker tournament at Seminole Casino Coconut Creek raised over $35,000 for veterans.
The tournament donated the money to Irreverent Warriors, a group focused on creating a more united veteran community and tackling mental health and suicide issues in veterans.
Over the last decade, the popularity of Florida poker tournaments has exploded. As a result, attendance records have been broken at recent tournaments.
The charity event ran on Sept. 11, with 224 players paying their $150 buy-in. However, only the top 11 spots finished in the money. Those players earned their share of a fixed $10,000 prize pool with the winner taking home $3,000.
Prizes escalated at regular intervals until seventh place, with seventh through 11th all earning $250. Furthermore, the tournament had surprise bounties, which awarded gift certificates of $250 to $500 to the casino’s award-winning steakhouse, NYY Steak.
Aligning with the mission
Irreverent Warriors’ mission involves using humor and camaraderie to improve mental health and also prevent veteran suicide. Additionally, Irreverent Warriors president and CEO Cindy McNally said the organization aims to connect veterans with other veterans.
“That mission provides a ‘safe’ place for veterans to let their walls down, connect with warriors who have had similar experiences, and enjoy a day of camaraderie and laughter without feeling like they have to perform or be judged.”
McNally expressed gratitude toward Seminole Gaming and Seminole Coconut Creek for partnering with the organization and also creating a space to support its mission. Consequently, she praised the venue, tournament and participants, including past and present service members and other supporters.
Local celebrities and leaders seen at event
Seminole Casino Coconut Creek’s feelings for Irreverent Warriors and the charity poker tournament were mutual, according to Seminole Casino Coconut Creek President Larry Buck.
“It was our honor to partner with Irreverent Warriors for this tournament. Irreverent Warriors is a terrific organization that supports our veterans every day. It is our sincere hope that the money raised will assist with their important mission, which is to improve mental health and prevent suicide.”
A handful of notable guests showed their support, too. Coconut Creek Mayor Joshua Rydell and Commissioner Randy Strauss, former Dolphins linebacker Rob “Bru” Brudzinski, former University of Florida running back Eric Rhett and Florida Panthers announcer Randy Moeller were all in attendance.
Upcoming Irreverent Warriors events
The Irreverent Warriors typically host hikes. But these are not meant to test fitness levels. Instead, the group provides an all-inclusive space where people of all ages can come together and participate.
Events take place regularly in over 125 cities across the US. Upcoming Florida dates include:
- Fort Walton Beach, Oct. 22
- Tampa, Nov. 19
- Key West, Dec. 10
- South Florida, Feb. 11
Earlier events this year took place in Jax Beach and Tallahassee. You can find information on future events or donate to the organization at the Irreverent Warrior website.
Photo by Shutterstock
