DOWNINGTOWN, PA — Philadelphia Eagles fans will have a chance to hear stories from three former players while helping Downingtown students and local families during a special evening that combines football, community service, and educational fundraising.
Former Eagles Seth Joyner, Brent Celek and Todd Herremans will headline “Beyond the Game with Eagles Greats” on Thursday, Nov. 5, at Downingtown High School West. The event will feature a live moderated conversation, a community marketplace, food vendors, and an opportunity for fans to meet the players.
Presented through a partnership between the Downingtown Area School District and the Downingtown Community Education Foundation (DCEF), the event will raise money for student enrichment programs, classroom resources, and educational opportunities throughout the district.
Admission is free for all students, while adults can attend for $20 or receive free admission by donating a brand-new coat for a local family in need.
The evening begins at 5 p.m. when doors open for The Concourse Marketplace, community activities, and local food vendors. Guests can explore the marketplace, enjoy refreshments, and connect with neighbors before the main program.
At 7 p.m., Joyner, Celek and Herremans will take the stage for a moderated question-and-answer session exploring their experiences in professional football and the lessons they learned along the way.
The conversation will focus on leadership, resilience, teamwork, and perseverance, connecting the challenges of professional athletics with experiences that students and families can apply beyond the football field.
Joyner, a former Eagles linebacker, was known for his intensity and leadership during his years in Philadelphia. Celek, a longtime Eagles tight end, helped the franchise capture its first Super Bowl championship following the 2017 season. Herremans, an offensive lineman who spent much of his NFL career with Philadelphia, was a key member of the team’s offense for years.
Together, the three former players will offer different perspectives on teamwork, overcoming obstacles, and building successful careers.
For fans seeking a more personal experience, VIP admission includes an exclusive meet-and-greet with the Eagles greats from 6:20 to 7 p.m., along with reserved seating for the live discussion.
Beyond the opportunity to meet former professional athletes, organizers hope the event will demonstrate how sports can bring people together to support their community.
Proceeds will directly benefit DCEF, which provides grants, enrichment opportunities, and educational resources for students across the Downingtown Area School District.
The foundation’s work helps expand learning experiences and provide resources that support student achievement beyond traditional classroom instruction.
The event also includes a community coat drive designed to assist Downingtown-area families as colder weather approaches.
Adults who donate a brand-new coat can attend the event without paying the $20 general admission charge, creating an opportunity for residents to support local families while enjoying the evening’s activities.
Event Details
- What: Beyond the Game with Eagles Greats, featuring a live moderated conversation with former Philadelphia Eagles Seth Joyner, Brent Celek and Todd Herremans, along with a community marketplace, food vendors and a coat drive
- When: Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026. Doors and marketplace open at 5 p.m.; VIP meet-and-greet runs from 6:20 to 7 p.m.; live Q&A takes place from 7 to 7:50 p.m.
- Where: Downingtown High School West, 445 Manor Avenue, Downingtown, PA 19335
- Cost/Tickets: Students attend free. Adult general admission is $20 or free with the donation of a brand-new coat. VIP admission is $100 and includes a meet-and-greet and reserved seating. All attendees must reserve a ticket, including those receiving free admission. Parking is free, and food is sold separately.
- More Info: Reserve tickets at https://givebutter.com/Beyond-The-Game-with-Eagles-Greats. Additional event information is available at https://www.dasd.org/news-events/district-news/details/~board/home-page-posts/post/beyond-the-game-with-eagles-greats
How to Support the Coat Drive
Community members who want to participate in the coat drive should bring:
- A brand-new coat for a local family in need.
The coat donation qualifies an adult for free general admission. Donations should be brought to the event on Thursday, Nov. 5. A separate advance donation deadline was not provided.
All guests must reserve their tickets before attending, regardless of whether they qualify for complimentary admission.
In addition to individual tickets, organizers are offering sponsorship opportunities, including First Down sponsorships for $1,000 and Field Goal sponsorships for $2,500.
For Downingtown families, the evening offers more than an opportunity to meet familiar names from Philadelphia football. It provides a chance for students to hear firsthand about determination and teamwork while helping fund educational opportunities for their peers.
With free student admission, a charitable coat drive, and a conversation featuring three Eagles veterans, Beyond the Game aims to turn a shared love of football into meaningful support for Downingtown schools and families.
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