Checkers pits Seminole fans against Gator fans

TAMPA, Fla. — Checkers Drive-In Restaurants Inc., the official burger sponsor of both the University of Florida Gators and Florida State Seminoles, announced it is bringing back its popular "Choose Your Champ" promotion to participating locations in Florida.

 

Checkers challenges Gator and Seminole fans to take the competition to the drive-thru, while providing scholarship and educational funding to both universities.

Checkers guests can vote for their favorite home state team by ordering a Gator Combo or Seminole Combo. Checkers will donate a portion of the proceeds of each Gator Combo, Seminole Combo or large Coke purchased to the schools' athletic scholarship funds during football season.

In addition, the company is making a donation of $25,000 to both the University of Florida Food Science and Human Nutrition Department and the Florida State University Dedman School of Hospitality for scholarships, as well as educational and internship programs.

 

"This promotion is unique because it reaches far beyond traditional football or sports sponsorships to support educational programs at both universities," said Richard Turer, vice president of marketing at Checkers Drive-In Restaurants.

 

Most Checkers in Florida offer the Gator and Seminole combo meals, which include a half-pound double Champ burger with cheese, large fries and a large drink in the fan's choice of Gator or Seminole collectible cup.

 

Since the Choose Your Champ promotion and other corporate pledges began in 2004, Checkers has donated more than $185,000 to the universities.

 

Checkers is also the official burger sponsor of the NFL's Miami Dolphins.