(AP) -- Jay Riemersma (REE'-muhrz-muh) is drawing on his football past to generate support in his 2010 bid for a west Michigan congressional seat. The former University of Michigan and NFL tight end announced Thursday that former Wolverine coach Lloyd Carr will campaign on his behalf on Sept. 17. Stops are planned in Holland, Grand Haven and Grand Rapids.

Riemersma played at Zeeland High School before moving on to Michigan and then Buffalo and Pittsburgh in the NFL. He's one of several Republicans seeking to replace Republican U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra of Holland, who's running for governor.

Other Republicans in the race are former state lawmaker Bill Huizenga of Zeeland and businessman Bill Cooper of Fruitport.

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