Wow, what an unbelievable evening Tuesday in Sarasota! I could have never imagined the Dick Vitale Sports Night would catch on the way it has.

The big winners were the Boys and Girls Club youngsters. The people here in Sarasota, Fla. have responded in big-time fashion. The community has come out and supported the cause for three years now.

The big winners were the Boys and Girls Club youngsters.

In the first Sarasota Boys Club Hall of Fame, we honored Pro Football Hall of Famer Otto Graham. He has meant a lot to our area here in Florida. He shared memories about his past and playing under legendary coach Paul Brown. Graham was introduced by one of the best defensive coaches in NFL history, Bud Carson.

Monica Seles was honored and presented by tennis coach extraordinaire Nick Bollitieri. Local coach Joe Canaan, a brilliant football sideline technician who led Manatee High School to four state championships, was also honored.

I was so impressed with the turnout, and unfortunately we had to turn back people at the door. More than 400 were in attendance at Chelsea Center and we sold every ticket for the special raffle for a 2001 red Mercedes Benz convertible valued at over $65,000. We raised over $100,000 in the drawing, which was won by local businessman Ed Page.

It was truly a beautiful night and one I will always remember. I can't thank the people of Sarasota enough. We have now raised over $400,000 in three years -- with a long-term goal of $1 million.

I can't wait for next year's event!