Annual Kids Holiday Shopping Spree A Success

Another hearty thank you to all who attended the allCanes 14th Annual Holiday Shopping Spree For Kids on Monday night.

Our first event kicked off in 2001, weeks before the Miami Hurricanes claimed their fifth national championship at the Rose Bowl and despite all the ups and downs this program has seen since, we’re thrilled to have kept the streak alive.

None of this would be possible without the the UM coaches, coaches’ wives, former players, local businesses and loyal fans, always quick to donate, allowing us to load up gift cards with $95 a piece (honoring the late Bryan Pata, whose family and foundation have worked hand in hand with us for years now.)

UHealth, Milam’s Supermarkets, Flanigan’s, The Big Cheese and The Crepe Maker.

We had a record 37 kids in-store this year—kids fro the local Police Athletic League, the Boys & Girls Club and the Pata Foundation—who were treated to pizza and desserts, before Santa dropped the gift cards on them.

Former NCB 6 anchor and UM alumnus Tony Segreto again emceed the event, while other members of the U Family were quick to sign on and play their role.

Kelly James, wife of athletic director Blake James and Kelly Golden, wife of head football coach Al Golden were in attendance. As were wives of some assistant coaches—Kenia Coley, wife of offensive coordinator James Coley, Amber Carroll, wife of wide receivers coordinator Brennan Carroll, Tawny Brown, wife of linebackers coach Hurlie Brown, Shakeira Scott, wife of tight ends coach Larry Brown. Basketball was represented, too as Liz Larrañaga, wife of Jim Larrañaga—also helping the kids with their shopping experience.

Coach L was also in the house, as was former defensive back DeMarcus Van Dyke, who happened to be in town and wanted to lend a hand.

All in all, a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season and a necessary reminder to let an equalizer moment like this wash over—remembering that there’s more to this whole thing than just wins and losses.

Still, for the scoreboard crowd, Monday night at allCanes was a win.

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