The inaugural World Series of Cornhole and Legend Shootout Tournament, organized by former Ohio State quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith, will feature college football legends competing in a unique athletic event with a focus on mental health advocacy. Smith is bringing together former Buckeye greats to face Texas Longhorn icons including fellow Heisman winner Ricky Williams and Vince Young in a showcase that blends skill with meaningful purpose.
Smith emphasized that the event serves a deeper purpose beyond the cornhole boards. This is about competition, camaraderie, and creating new spaces for athletes to connect. It is fun and lighthearted, but it is also about addressing something very real—mental health. Athletes go through challenges like anyone else, and it is important to have healthy outlets and conversations around that. 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.
Mental health is just as important as physical health. If our mental health is not where it needs to be, the days can pile up, leading to stress, anxiety, or worse. We want to stop that cycle, provide support, and give young people tools to succeed both on and off the field. 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.
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. Tickets for the event are available through the official World Series of Cornhole website and directly from the venue. This tournament represents a significant step in using sports platforms to address critical issues, demonstrating how athletic competition can foster community support and drive positive change in mental health awareness.
