TAMPA BAY, Fla., April 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- After 18 years of running one of the premier golf tournaments in Central Florida, the Florida Club Managers Association of America has looked beyond the greens and onto the ice.  The FLCMAA has partnered with NHL Hall-of-Famer Phil Esposito to co-market one of the best tournaments in Tampa Bay.  Now dubbed "The ESPO", the annual event will continue to donate proceeds to All Children's Hospital of St. Petersburg and the surrounding communities.  Wade Boggs, Fred McGriff and Dave Andreychuk are just three of the almost twenty celebrities already committed to this year's event.

Representing over 110 private clubs in one of five Florida regions, the FLCMAA believes the new partnership will bring elevated attention to the event.  "Having Phil Esposito involved will bring increased awareness to our cause.  As founder of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Phil's commitment to this community is unsurpassed.  His celebrity friends are always willing to lend a hand, and this will undoubtedly lead to increased fundraising opportunities," said Bob Max, Charity Events Co-Chair.

This year's ESPO will be held on May 2, 2011 at Laurel Oak Country Club in Sarasota, one of Florida's premier clubs. It will feature complimentary gourmet food throughout the course, exciting tee gifts, and an amazing silent auction.  "What an exciting time in my life - to be involved again with the Lightning as Vice President of Community Affairs, having this great team in the playoffs and to be part of my own golf tournament to benefit kids," said Phil Esposito. The tournament committee is currently looking for sponsors, players and volunteers. For more information, visit www.TheEspo.com.  Please join Phil and some of his very special friends.  Get in the game.

SOURCE The ESPO