Champions, Partners, and Supporters Converge in Davidson, NC for Nothing But Nets

Last week, Nothing But Nets took a road trip to the beautiful town of Davidson, North Carolina, for an exciting few days of events with champions, partners, and supporters. We got to hang out with Rick Reilly, sip Summit Coffee’s new Bzzz Blend, and celebrate our supporters at a special dinner hosted at Davidson College.

The trip kicked off with a visit to Salisbury, NC, to honor Rick Reilly’s induction into the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame. We started the day on the golf course; Mozzie hosted a competition and hung out with legendary sportswriters and sportscasters from across the country while educating them about the devastating impacts of malaria and the important work of Nothing But Nets. The day finished cheering on Rick as he was inducted into the Hall of Fame for his incredible career, with a special mention by John Elway about our work!

Back in Davidson, on the day Rick retired his ESPN.com column, he joined Nothing But Nets Champion Bryant Barr at Summit Coffee Co. to help launch its newest brew, Bzzz Blend – proceeds of which will benefit the campaign. Everyone on Main Street stopped by for a free cup of coffee to see Rick and Bryant working as baristas behind the counter. The Bzzz Blend debuted to rave reviews and we’re sure it’s going to be a fast favorite at Summit.

The highlight of our trip was a special dinner hosted by Summit Coffee on the Davidson College campus. Over 150 locals attended A Night with Nothing But Nets in Davidson and heard about the important role their town has played – from important community partners like Summit Coffee to amazing champions like Bryant Barr and Stephen Curry, both Davidson alums  – in rallying support for Nothing But Nets and inspiring others to join the fight to beat malaria. Rick Reilly provided the keynote address to reflect on the impact of his first Nothing But Nets column, and thanked Davidson for being the “epicenter” of the fight against malaria. The night ended with an exciting live auction led by Rick and Bryant that helped bring our fundraising total to more than $15,000 for the weekend!

The buzz continued even after we left; last Saturday, Summit Coffee hosted the Summer Solstice five-mile race around downtown Davidson. Thanks to all for your continued support for Nothing But Nets!