Troy High School football standout Steph Jones hopes to take his skills on the gridiron to Australia this coming summer.

Jones, a 5-foot-10, 150-pound running back and linebacker, helped the Trojans reach the state playoffs for the first time since the early 1990s. He is the son of Jody and Shelly Jones.

Down Under Sports Tournaments invited Jones to participate but he needs to raise money to make the trip a reality. He is seeking sponsors willing to make a contribution toward the cost of his trip.

For those who donate, they will receive “thank-you tickets” that go into a drawing for a free trip for two to Australia, New Zealand or Hawaii.

Athletes must be nominated by their high school coach in order to participate, whose alumni include college and NFL stars Jake Plummer and Ahman Green. Besides on-the-field competition, Jones will also have the opportunity to experience the culture, beauty and grandeur of Australia.

International Sports Specialists was founded in 1989 by George O’Scanlon of New Zealand and led to the establishment of the Down Under Bowl and other sporting events.

This year, the Down Under Sports Tournaments will include competition in football, cheerleading, basketball, volleyball, golf, cross country, track and field, freestyle wrestling and swimming.

For those willing to help or to obtain a sponsorship form, Jones can be reached at 295-0301. Or, mail donations to Steph Jones, P.O. Box 1067, Troy, MT 59935. Make checks payable to International Sports Specialists Inc.

On the Net: For more background information on International Sports Specialists, go online to www.downundersports.com