As the high school football season comes to a close this month, the Albert Lea Grizzlies, the local men’s team that plays throughout the summer at Southwest Middle School, is going to take its turn playing on Jim Gustafson Field.

An exhibition game against the Steele County Warriors, which is scheduled for Saturday at 2 p.m., will be a fundraiser for the Albert Lea junior high football program.

Besides paying for the cost of officials and the use of the field, all of the proceeds from ticket sales will go to helping the youth purchase new equipment, a long overdue expense.

The Grizzlies president, Craig Schmidt, and the head coach, Steve Piper, are also junior high coaches and said it would be a good way for the Grizzlies to show they are a part of the Albert Lea community.

According to Piper, the Grizzlies already take time to do skills with the youth program so the fundraiser game is an obvious fit.

Concession stands will be available during the game. All proceeds from the concession stand will benefit the Albert Lea Quarterback Club.

Tickets for the game will be $5 with free admission for junior high kids and younger.

The Grizzlies will play in another exhibition game on the road at the Metrodome on Dec. 15 as part of Southern Prairie Football League. Their opponent is yet to be determined.

The team is always looking to add players, coaches and volunteers to their program. Interested parties may call Schmidt at 402-6453.