Pacific Assistant Director of Athletic Facilities Jay St. Clair Named Volunteer of the Year at the East/West Shrine Game

Feb. 7, 2007

Stockton, Calif. - In his 13th year as a volunteer at the annual East/West Shrine, Jay St. Clair, Pacific Assistant Director of Athletic Facilities, was named the Volunteer of the Year.

The East/West Shrine Game pits 100 of the top college seniors in a football game with the proceeds going to the various Shrine hospitals throughout the country.

More than just a game, the East/West Shrine Game is a week-long affair that is run more like a combine with the players practicing in front of well over 200 scouts and agents daily. Every player goes through an intensive screening process by the various teams from the NFL, Canadian league, and representatives from Europe as well.

St. Clair coordinates several athletic facilities and athletic equipment professionals to assist in meeting the needs of the game personnel throughout the week. A great deal of preparation goes on throughout the year to see that the week runs smoothly. But the real work begins once the rosters are selected. St. Clair and his staff track down the individuals and arrange for their gear to be sent from their different schools. They also set up locker rooms, arrange for practice field preparation, and game day site organization.

What makes the Shrine Game so special is its true purpose - helping to support Shriners Hospitals for Children. Every year since 1925, the Shrine Game has been played to raise money and to help make the public aware of the expert orthopedic and burn care available, at no cost, at all 22 Shriners Hospitals for Children.

To date, the game has raised more than $14 million for Shriners Hospitals and has helped inform millions of people about the mission of this extraordinary philanthropy.

"I was quite honored to be selected for this award in such an elite setting," said St. Clair. "Football itself takes a backstage to what actually occurs at this particular all star game and that's why I continue to work the game."