Last month, the seventh annual Greater Houston Senior Football Showcase (GHSFS) took place, and hundreds of student athletes came to NRG Stadium’s practice bubble that day in the hopes of landing an academic scholarship.

The event turned out to be a huge success, as of the 468 students who showed up this year, 374 of them—or a whopping 80 percent—were offered scholarships. And while the tallies of this year’s scholarship dollars still aren’t in yet, the totals have topped $10 million for each of the past four years.

“This is a labor of love,” said Reagan High School Graduation Coach George C. “Coby” Rhoden, who coordinates the showcase with Milby High School Head Football Coach Phil Camp every year. “Our life’s work is to see kids further their education.”

Parents of participating students also had positive things to say about the event.

“I had no idea about D2, D3, or NAIA opportunities [provided by this showcase], and I don’t think my son did either,” said one parent. “We are very surprised with the interest he is receiving. This showcase is providing more exposure for my son than his NCSA profile.”

“At just under six feet, Ben’s height has long been a source of ‘isn’t it too bad’ type of comments,” added another student’s father. “He is an offensive lineman, and so many people seem to think there is no place for him, only the 6’3″-plus boys. But going to this showcase and demonstrating his ability and drive was a turning point. Having half a dozen top-quality D3/NAIA schools actively pursue him was life-changing. The semi-pro D1 level schools may be the Prince Charming dream of most players, but these schools are the true happily ever after.”

The GHSFS is underwritten entirely by donations and in-kind donations from generous corporate and community sponsors.