Larry Libertore & The Larry Libertore Youth Sports Scholarship
"Anything is Possible"
At 5-foot 8-inches and 138 pounds, Larry Libertore proved that “Anything is Possible”. Despite his small stature, he led the University of Florida Gator football team to the most victories in Florida football history. Larry was not only successful in football but was a leader in his community and a successful businessman.
Larry “Little Lightning” Libertore was a standout quarterback at Miami Edison High where he was recognized with All-City, All-State, and All-American awards. Larry signed with the Gators and was a star quarterback, safety, and punt returner from 1960 to 1962. He was named Most Valuable Player at the 1960 Gator Bowl and was on the SEC All-Scholastic Team. Larry's 786 rushing yards remained the most by a Gator quarterback until Tim Tebow broke his record in 2007. Larry was inducted into the Gator Bowl Hall of Fame in 1994 and the University of Florida Athletic Hall of Fame as a “Gator Great” in 2005.
After college, Larry moved to Lakeland and obtained a USFL professional franchise football team, The Florida Brahmans. As GM, head coach, and player, Larry helped many young men transition into the NFL and AFL. He then went on to have a career in business as a restaurant owner, commercial developer, and owner of a real estate and insurance agency. He also served as a Florida Legislator and a Polk County Commissioner.
Larry used his experience and leadership skills to give back to his community. He was an active member of clubs and organizations. He loved coaching little league football and sharing his passion for sports with kids. Larry believed that every child has the potential to succeed if provided the opportunity and that sports can be the conduit to successful adulthood.
The Larry Libertore Youth Sports Scholarship was created in memory of Larry, giving underprivileged aspiring athletes, ages 11-18, the opportunity to participate in sports camps, clinics, and leagues, that would otherwise be unattainable.
The Libertore Family recently celebrated the naming of a local park after their brother Larry, read more about the Larry Libertore Sports Complex.
