On October 19th, I had the incredible opportunity to fly out to Denver, Colorado and participate in a Safeway Foundation check presenting ceremony during the half-time of the Colorado Rapids vs. Montreal White Caps game. The Safeway Foundation awarded the U.S. Soccer Foundation a $100,000 grant to support our Soccer for Success program in Denver and Seattle. With their support, and the incredible work of our partners, Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer and Washington Youth Soccer, we will be able to positively impact the lives of approximately 1,925 youth.
The game was extremely exciting! With a Colorado Rapids win, the team would be one win away from getting a spot in the MLS Playoffs. Forty minutes into the game we were taken down to the field in preparation for the half-time check presentation ceremony. It was the first time I had ever watched an MLS game from the sidelines. Vancouver was up by one goal, but then after a penalty, Colorado Rapids player Gabriel Torres was given the opportunity to tie the game with a penalty kick. Members of the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer staff, Safeway staff and I stood on the sideline in anticipation.
And he scored!
A tie-game was a great way to end the first half and start the check presentation ceremony. The Safeway Foundation presented the U.S. Soccer Foundation with a large check at mid field. I was happy to share this experience with Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer, whose partnership has been critical in making a difference in the lives of over 1,500 youth in the Denver, Colorado area. Though standing at mid-field was an incredible experience, my favorite part of the check presenting ceremony was that it brought together different groups that are working in collaboration to achieve one common goal- improving the health outcomes of youth.
I look forward to updating you on the progress of this new partnership.
Colorado Rapids update: Colorado Rapids won the game 3-2!
