For the last 60 years, Mr. 2-Bits has cheered on the Gators. Friday, for the fifth straight year, he took some time off the field to raise money for a group of students close to his heart.

The Mr. 2-Bits Golf Invitational raises about $15 thousand for a scholarship fund. And even though Mr. 2-Bits, George Edmondson, is set to retire after Saturday's game, the golf invitational continued.

The money raised goes to the under appreciated athletes on the sidelines. 60 members of the spirit squad, which includes mascots, cheerleaders and Dazzlers, receive between $700 and $1,600 a year for the hours they put in to practices, workouts and games. In addition to that, they also receive the money raised by the golf tournament, which translates to about $250 a person.

“Our job is cheerleading, our job is dancing. Even a small amount helps us so much. We are very grateful for it,” Gators cheerleader Holly Reed said.

But there was no doubt that paying tribute to Mr. 2-Bits was the draw for the crowd. The 86-year-old has been a Florida Gators tradition, cheering crowds of 90-thousand people into a frenzy.

“I'm kind of looking forward to my retirement, and go Gators tomorrow!” Edmondson said. Over the last five years, the invitational has raised about $70 thousand. Next year, organizers said they hope to expand scholarships to deserving high school spirit team members.