Zbikowski donations to honor slain boxer

In memory of a former sparring partner who recently was gunned down in Chicago, Notre Dame football star Tom Zbikowski is helping by donating equipment and funds to the Leo High School football and boxing programs.

In addition to donating money he earned for an Under Armour commercial, Zbikowski, a former football and track star at Buffalo Grove High School, is supporting a 12-bout fundraising event at the school.

The evening will be honoring former student-athlete Jason Riley, who was shot and killed in Chicago recently. Riley was the captain of the Leo boxing team, valedictorian, class president and a participant in football, baseball and boxing. He also sang in his church choir and served as a youth baseball coach and mentor.

Zbikowski sparred with Riley during his amateur career as boxer. Now, through his Tommy Z Foundation, Zbikowski has worked with Under Armour to supply Leo's athletes with new equipment.

The Leo Boxing Night fundraising event will feature 12 bouts and guest appearances by celebrities. The event is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Bourbon Street, a sports bar at 3359 W. 115th St. in Marionette Park on Chicago's South Side. Donations of $20 will be accepted at the door.