Dear Tournament Sponsor,

This year's 1st Annual James Madison University Rockfish Shootout was a huge success and we couldn't have pulled it off without the support of sponsors such as you! The tournament rose nearly $4,000 for the Hampton Roads Duke Club, a regional chapter of the James Madison University Duke Club. The Duke Club is the fundraising arm for James Madison University Athletics. Through its annual fund drive, the Duke Club raises unrestricted contributions in support of student-athlete scholarships and the athletic budget. Thanks to you, this event has tremendous momentum and will grow for years to come!

This year's tournament December 12th @ Chick's Oyster Bar / Marina had nearly 100 participants and 18 boats. With the forecast changing numerous times through the week leading up to the event, we were truly blessed with ideal rockfishing conditions and sunshine. There was plenty of excitement at the weigh station with several 30 lb + fish and a pair of 40 lb + studs! The competition on the water was stiff that day, with 5 other tournaments all happening in Hampton Roads the fishing grounds were packed. Amazingly enough, the National Striped Bass Championship going on was won with a 40 lb fish and 2 fish in our tournament beat it (42 lb by Team Just Right & 46 lb by team Foul Hooked)!

The quality of fish & camaraderie of the teams made the atmosphere on the docks a site to behold with all the passing boat traffic. After the weigh-ins, the awards ceremony was packed with great food including a spread of fresh caught rockfish from the teams. There were thousands of dollars paid out to the winning teams, along with amazing silent auction items including an autographed JMU football helmet signed by Coach Matthews, Verizon Amphitheatre VIP concert tickets, and the top bid Appalachian State “Ultimate Comeback” framed picture. Each team was given a commemorative “captain's bucket” loaded with goodies including our extremely popular tournament t-shirt, sticker(s), sponsor gifts, and tournament booklet. It was a huge hit!

Just as quickly as this year's tournament has come and gone, before we know it next year's event will be knocking on our door. We hope that your organization appreciates the demographic that you touch at this prestigious event! We ask of you to join Norfolk Marine in your commitment for our 2nd Annual event next December, and in the meantime, Happy Holidays! If there is anything we can ever do for you, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us.

Sincerely,