Celebrity Guests

Each year, approximately 18-20 NFL Players, University of Montana Grizzlies, and film celebrities contribute their time and participate in the Whitefish Winter Classic.

NFL celebrities included quarterback Steve Young, defensive lineman Merlin Olson, wide reciever James Lofton, kicker Morton Anderson, quaterback Billy Volek, offensive lineman Jake Scott, and linebacker Kevin Green. The Classic has also had pro rodeo stars such as Michael Beers, Dave Appleton, Beau Hill, and Louis Field.

Film star Peter Fonda has attended as well as Steve Kanaly of "Dallas," Wendy Mallick of "Just Shoot Me," Dennis Franz of "NYPD Blues," and soap stars Wayne Northrup and Lynn Herring. A few celebrities return almost annually: former Griz and NFL alumni Tim Hauck, Rocky Klever, Guy Bingham, Justin Green, and Kirk Scrafford. Most importantly, a crowd favorite--Monte, University of Montana Grizzly mascot!

This Year's Celebrity Guests

Colt Anderson, Minnesota Vikings
Dan Carpenter, Miami Dolphins
Casey Fitzsimmons, Detroit Lions
Justin Green, Arizona Cardinals
Tuff Harris, Pittsburgh Steelers
Lex Hilliard, Miami Dolphins
Marc Mariani, Former Griz Standout
Ed Mulitalo, Detroit Lions
Haloti Ngata, Baltimore Ravens
Robin Pflugard, UM Head Football Coach
Tyler Polumbus, Denver Broncos
Grey Ruegamer, Seattle Seahawks
Rocky Klever, New York Jets (Retired)
Scott Gragg, UM Offensive Line Coach, 49ers (Retired)

Player's Stories

"After playing in the NFL for ten years, I have been blessed to be able to help with many different charities. This particular event has been so much fun that I have made it a tradition for me and my family to attend every year! What is more rewarding and inspiring to see is the direct and almost immediate impact for good that the foundation is having for the kids. I'm thankful for the opportunity that I've had to associate myself with Doug Betters and his worthy cause. It is a great reminder to me of what is really important in life."

- Edwin Mulitalo, Baltimore Ravens 1999 to 2006, Detroit Lions 2007 to 2008

"Year's ago when I was playing football, I was approached often about helping different benefits with auction items or cash. It seemed like almost every month someone was trying to help raise money for different medical hardships their kids or friends kids were facing. It was difficult for a lot of people to ask for help. Many were too proud to ask for charity but were in a situation where they didn't have a choice. I decided then that if we had a fund already in place we could help those in need right now. These folks had a lot on their plates already and their children's medical care should be first and foremost.

Over the past 25 years, thanks to the generosity of many people, we've been there for hundreds of families in their time of need. Not a week goes by when someone doesn't come up to me and say "you don't know me but I want to shake your hand and say thanks, you helped me out in a very difficult time and I don't know what we would have done if not for the Winter Classic." It makes me feel great to help others for I know whatever I give I get back 10 fold - this is especially true since my accident 13 years ago. People have been incredibly kind to me and I can't help but think it's my pay back for our work with the Winter Classic. Giving back to others is an amazing feeling like no other and something you'll remember the rest of your life."

- Doug Betters, Miami Dolphins 1978 to 1987