In 1997, after attending and participating in countless celebrity golf tournaments all over the world that benefit various charities, Eddie and Walter Payton decided to use the best from each tournament to start an annual celebrity golf tournament. The tournament was to be held in Mississippi, and the funds garnered would provide scholarships to economically disadvantaged students to pursue their goals of a college education. Unfortunately, Walter lost his battle with a rare liver disease in 1999. With Eddie at the helm, the Payton family decided to pick up the torch. With the help of hundreds of celebrities and corporate sponsors, the dream became a reality. To most people Walter will be remembered as one of the greatest football players that ever lived; however, Walter had an immense respect for educators, truly recognized the importance of a quality education, and committed himself to making a difference in the lives of young people.