Rusty Wheel, Sobo Athletic Club launch monthly meat raffles to support local student athletes
Sunday's meat raffle will include thick-cut bacon, pork loin, 14 pork chops, various sausages, ribeye steaks, ribs, and more.
The Rusty Wheel Tavern, located at 529 Blackhawk Blvd in South Beloit, and the South Beloit Athletic Club are teaming up to bring a fun — and meaty — new tradition to the community. On Sunday, May 4, 2025 at 2 p.m., the two organizations will host their first monthly meat raffle at The Rusty Wheel, with proceeds going toward athletic programs for local students.
The raffles will be held monthly through the summer and then shift to a weekly schedule during the NFL season.
"Jeff, Rusty Wheel owner, approached the Sobo Athletic Club. He has been wanting to do a meat raffle but wanted to work with a not-for-profit to donate the proceeds to," said Kurt Fago, president of the South Beloit Athletic Club.
The cuts up for grabs include pounds of thick-cut bacon, pork loin, 14 pork chops, various sausages, ribeye steaks, ribs, and more.
"We hope to raise a few hundred dollars at each raffle," said Fago. "Our plan is to earmark the funds raised through the raffles to upgrade concession equipment. Some of the equipment has been at the school since the mid-90s. And though it still works, we cannot get parts anymore if something breaks."
Fago praised The Rusty Wheel’s commitment to the community.
"Jeff and the staff at The Rusty Wheel Tavern are great to work with. They are very easy to work with and have the best interest of the community at heart," he said.
Unlike many school districts where booster support starts at the high school level, the South Beloit Athletic Club supports student-athletes beginning in 5th grade and continuing through high school.
"The Sobo Athletic Club has struggled since COVID with membership. However, we have been growing each year and have a great core group of parents that want the best for our student-athletes," Fago added. In addition, the Sobo Athletic Club has more events on the docket, including a back-to-school bash on August 16 at Viking Lanes, a homecoming tailgate party, and the return of the winter craft show for the first time since COVID.
For those looking to support a good cause while possibly taking home a hefty bundle of meat, the monthly raffles are sure to deliver — with every ticket purchased helping to support youth sports in South Beloit.
