Old veterans at this all-star stuff, D’Amani Grayer and Tyler Bruggman are looking forward to helping 11 CAYFL players get the most out of their New Year’s trip to Florida for Saturday’s Under Armour AYF All Star Game in Tampa.

“It was a great experience,” said Grayer, who was part of last year’s West All Stars and whose father, Dee, is the head coach of this year’s West team. “I met a lot of different people from all around the country, and it was great just to see what was outside Arizona.”

Grayer, who played in the Chandler Youth football organization, and Bruggman, of Scottsdale Youth Football, will serve as youth assistants to the coaching staff, which includes Bruggman’s father, Curt. D’Amani will work with the defense, Tyler alongside his father, the offensive coordinator.

“The contacts I made were remarkable,” said Bruggman, who played in the Army-sponsored all-star game in San Antonio last year. “I still keep in touch with people I met.”

The two are freshmen teammates at Brophy Prep and eager to share their experiences with the 11 Arizona representatives, the most on the West team except for California.

Grayer has immediate advice for them.

“I didn’t take advantage of all that was available,” he said. “I hope they talk to all those seniors (from the high-school game) who know what it takes to get where you want to go.

“I’m glad I get to go again.”

Both recalled the talented players they had as teammates and opponents.

“It was quite an experience playing with that caliber of players,” Bruggman said.

Grayer also recalled the game preparation.

“It helps build a great work ethic,” he said. “You have two days to get everything in place and then play.”