Panthers bowl in Ron Rivera's annual Bowl-a-Palooza

MATTHEWS, N.C. — With a week remaining in organized team activities, Carolina Panthers coaches and players spent time together, away from the football field, for Ron Rivera's fifth-annual Bowl-a-Palooza.

Players and coaches hit the lanes in Matthews for Saturday’s event benefiting the Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte.

In previous years, the event has helped to raise more than a $100,000 for children and families of the local Ronald McDonald House.

Plenty of Panthers players took part, including Thomas Davis, Captain Munnerlyn, and Panthers first-round draft pick Christian McCaffrey.

Rivera said he is grateful that Panthers fans are so supportive of them on and off the field.

"I think this really epitomizes what we hoped, as far as giving back to the community,” Rivera said. “And that's being able to draw our fans and have them come out and support us. And have the players, coaches and our organization show the same support to them."

The players and coaches emphasized the importance of giving back and helping others.

"Sometimes you think that you're the one giving back, but sometimes it's the other way around. They're giving back to you,” Panthers wide receiver Austin Duke said. “So I’m just going around and meeting these families and hearing their stories man. It's a blessing and I'm excited to be a part of it."

Cox Media Group