MLS To Aid Iraqi Children
Published on May 7, 2003 under Major League Soccer (MLS) News Release
NEW YORK (Wednesday, May 7, 2003) - Major League Soccer along with its member teams, official suppliers and fans will kick off an "Iraqi Aid" soccer ball and equipment donation program this weekend in the metropolitan areas of Chicago, Columbus and New York, with opportunities next week in Dallas, Denver, Kansas City, San Jose and Wash., D.C.
"This is an outstanding opportunity for the American soccer community to once again pull together and demonstrate the depth and breadth of our passion for giving," said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. "With the worldwide appeal of our sport, we are in a unique position to support the rebuilding of Iraq by providing a much needed diversion to the children of that nation."
Working with Mr. Don Eberly, the interim Minister of Youth and Sports for Iraq, MLS and AEG Soccer have coordinated efforts to secure 10,000 soccer balls and additional equipment such as shoes, shirts and shorts for the children of Iraq. Aimed at providing a real impact on the youth affected by war and oppression, the outreach serves as a symbolic gesture from the American soccer community that will create hope for the citizens of Iraq, including the more than 15 million people under the age of 24.
"AEG and our MLS Teams are excited to be part of this program and to be able to help the people -- especially the children -- of Iraq," said Kevin Payne, Managing Director of AEG Soccer. "Soccer is one of the world's universal languages, and we hope that through the sport we can express to the people of Iraq that we hope we can be friends for many years to come. We strongly encourage our fans to support this program."
Major League Soccer equipment manufacturers, including adidas and Nike have kicked off the first wave of ball donations. In order to reach and surpass the 10,000-ball goal, each of the 10 MLS teams have initiated a ball drive in their local markets to encourage fans and other organizations to support this cause by donating a new or used soccer ball. In addition, each MLS team will donate extra balls and equipment on hand. Collection dates and sites during the next two weeks follow:
Saturday, May 10th
D.C. United at MetroStars - 7:30 p.m. ET
Colorado at Columbus - 7:30 p.m. ET
San Jose at Chicago - 8:30 p.m. ET
Major League Soccer Stories from May 7, 2003
- Fire To Help Major League Soccer Kick Off 'Iraqi Aid' Soccer - Chicago Fire FC
- MLS Family Provides Iraqi Aid Via Soccer - Columbus Crew SC
- D.C. United to Provide Iraqi Aid via Soccer - D.C. United
- MLS To Aid Iraqi Children - MLS
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