GUILDERLAND — Former Buffalo Bills running back Drew Smith is among more than 80 Guilderland all-star athletes and coaches who will return for the 20th anniversary Guilderland Lettermen Classic Golf event on Friday, Aug. 4, at Orchard Creek Golf Club in Altamont.

Smith, who was a Guilderland Lettermen Foundation award winner in 2008, joins fellow former Dutchmen greats Greg Barcomb 2007 (who played football at Cortland), Judd Robinson 2006 (who played lacrosse at Oswego), George Polino 2002 (who played lacrosse at Nazareth), Don Snyder (boys’ soccer coach and New York State Soccer Coaches hall of famer), and scores of others to attend the event that is the prime fundraiser for the foundation.

The Lettermen Foundation was established in 1997 to honor Guilderland student-athletes who letter in two varsity sports and are active in the community. Since its debut, the foundation has awarded more than $80,000 to 70 students and numerous community-based events.

“We can’t believe the support Guilderland alumni and the community have given the foundation in its 20 years,” said foundation board member and past President John Heath in a release from the not-for-profit group. “It's really gratifying to see past Guilderland athletes return to play in this event.”

“I’m really looking forward to getting back together with some of the guys,” said Smith, who will attend the awards ceremony and dinner. “My schedule has kept me away in past years. I’m thrilled to be able to come back, especially for the 20th anniversary, and support this great event that supported me and many of my Guilderland teammates.”

In 1997, the foundation awards to student athletes totaled $250. Now, $7,500 is presented annually to seven student athletes.

“I can’t thank the foundation enough for their involvement and eagerness to reward our student athletes for their hard work and accomplishments,” said Guilderland High School Athletic Director Regan Johnson.

Retired Guilderland High School art teacher and former Guilderland lacrosse and football coach, Art Waugh, has played in the golf tournament nearly every year. “The Lettermen Foundation has supported many community endeavors along with some of my former students. This organization’s dedication to our student athletes and community is unparalleled. I look forward to playing again this year on the 20th anniversary,” he said.

The tournament starts at 10 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 4, culminating with an awards ceremony and dinner at approximately 2:30 p.m. when the Class of 2017 award winners will be recognized.