Troy Smith Leads Buckeyes in Inaugural World Series of Cornhole to Support Mental Health Initiatives

Heisman Trophy winner and Ohio State legend Troy Smith is partnering with fellow Buckeye greats and Texas Longhorn icons for the inaugural World Series of Cornhole and Legend Shootout Tournament. This first-of-its-kind event brings together former athletes who have made their mark on the gridiron, now competing in a game of skill and camaraderie. Smith will be joined by fellow Buckeyes, while Texas will be represented by icons including Heisman winner Ricky Williams and Vince Young.

Smith emphasized that the event extends beyond competition to address critical mental health issues facing athletes. "This is about competition, camaraderie, and creating new spaces for athletes to connect," said Smith. "It's fun, it's lighthearted, but it's also about addressing something very real—mental health. Athletes go through challenges like anyone else, and it's important to have healthy outlets and conversations around that."

Through his work with the Richard Swinsey Inner City Kids and Youth Foundation, Smith supports under-served youth in Ohio and across the nation, providing resources, mentorship, and access to opportunities in sports and education. "Mental health is just as important as physical health," Smith explained. "If our mental health isn't 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 Ohio State vs. Texas showdown promises to be a highlight of the event, with Smith expressing confidence in Buckeye Nation's support. "We know Texas fans travel well, but we're in the championship city," Smith said with a smile. "I'm confident Buckeye Nation will show up strong to represent."

The two-day event features multiple components, including a Heisman Toast VIP gathering on Friday, August 29, 2025, from 3:00–5:00 PM at The Athletic Club of Columbus, offering cocktails, meet-and-greet photo opportunities with Heisman Trophies, and a charity auction hosted by Cowboy Auctioneer Heath Hale. The WSOC VIP Cornhole Tournament begins at 6:00 PM at The Railhouse at East Market, where sweepstakes winners team up with legends for a lively cornhole showdown.

Saturday's events include a VIP Tailgate Experience starting at 8:00 AM near the stadium and a post-game "Show Me Your Cornhole" after-party at Draft Day featuring celebrity judges and music by OSU Football's official DJ Corey Grand. Proceeds benefit player-driven foundations and charities including Troy Smith's mental health initiatives, the Vince Young Foundation, the Ted Ginn Jr. Foundation, Ricky Williams' programs, and select Texas-based 501(c)(3) organizations through raffles and auctions.

Tickets are available directly from the venue and online from the World Series of Cornhole. The event represents a innovative approach to athlete engagement and mental health advocacy, combining competitive spirit with meaningful philanthropy while maintaining no official affiliation with University of Texas, Ohio State University or Ohio State Athletics.