Alumni Football U.S.A. team coordinator Tracy Cavender is on a quest to gather Oakdale High football alumnus for an Oakdale vs. Sonora alumni game on Oct. 17 at Dunleavy Field in Sonora.

The program, a fundraiser for both participating schools in each contest, has drawn huge crowds across the nation in alumni games that have already generated over $75,000 for prep schools in 2010.

The October meeting between alumni from Sonora and Oakdale is expected to be no different, especially considering the strength and tradition of each school.

“Already I have found 15 guys off the streets of Oakdale interested in playing,” Cavender said. “It is a great opportunity to help the schools make money and allow young and older men put on the pads again.”

Cavender said the games have seen players ages 18 to 69 make their return to the gridiron. He expects to field teams of at least 25 deep with each side deciding on a coach and practice schedules.

“We let the teams decide whether they want to practice 100 times or just once,” Cavender said. “And we supply everything but cleats and socks.”

While the game is likely to see a healthy dose of friendly competition, the rules differ slightly from California Interscholastic Federation regulations. For one, players are encouraged to celebrate their scores, no matter how elaborate and uncoordinated that choreographed touchdown dance is.

“We have had some crazy touchdown celebrations,” Cavender laughed. “We try to make the game as fun as possible.”

To join a roster for this full contact game, reach old teammates, friends and family members, go to AlumniFootballUSA.com to reserve a spot on Oakdale’s roster. If you have any questions you can call Tracy Cavender at 530-524-2768 or email him at tjcavender@sbcglobal.net.