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USL Orange County SC

Orange County SC Joins Forces with MADD on Labor Day Weekend

August 30, 2022 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Orange County SC News Release


Orange County SC is partnering with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to remind fans to be the designated driver during one of the most dangerous weekends of the year, Labor Day weekend. The match will be held at the Championship Soccer Stadium in the City of Irvine on Saturday, September 3rd. A portion of the funds raised go directly to MADD's lifesaving mission here in Southern California and to provide necessary community services to those affected by drunk and drugged driving.

As part of Orange County SC community outreach program and using soccer to shine a light on social issues, the reigning USL Champions have teamed up with MADD California to remind fans of all ages the dangers of drunk and drugged driving. The game against Memphis will feature a number of initiatives intended to raise awareness around impaired driving, thank first responders and honor victims in the County.

"There is nothing more important to us than our community events and we couldn't be prouder to be supporting MADD and the incredible work they do," OCSC President of Business Operations Dan Rutstein said.

"I have seen firsthand the devastating impact that drunk driving can have, and we stand firmly behind any initiative that can help educate and inform drivers, parents, youngsters and the broader Orange County community," Rutstein said. "As a club, we host beer fests, we've hosted whisky tastings and we have alcohol brands as partners - but like MADD, our message isn't about saying don't drink, it is about saying don't drink and drive."

According to NHTSA, police-reported, alcohol-involved crashes increased by 5% from 2020 to 2021, indicating that estimated fatalities in 2021 were still higher as compared to the pre-pandemic levels of 2019. This is why MADD, Orange County SC and local Orange County law enforcement are working together with NHTSA to remind drivers that drunk driving is not only illegal, but also a matter of life and death.

"Hazardous driving behaviors have increased over the past two years amounting to more alcohol-related deaths and injuries on our roads," said Patricia Rillera, MADD California State Executive Director. "As we head into the Labor Day holiday, MADD is proud to join the Orange County SC along with local law enforcement partners in urging everyone to plan ahead before the first drink. Designate a non-impaired driver, utilize rideshare or call a taxi. There is never an excuse to drive impaired."

During the match, players from OCSC will be wearing black armbands to commemorate victims of drunk driving, victims' families will bring out the ceremonial ball and there will be a halftime penalty shot competition featuring first responders sponsored by the Noah Benardout Foundation. There will also be incentives for designated drivers.

MADD recommends these intervention techniques to prevent drunk and drugged driving:

Remember that it is never okay to drink and drive. Even if you've had only one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely.

If you see a drunk driver on the road, call 911.

Do you have a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get your friend home safely.

R&B pop, bilingual, singer-songwriter and American Idol alum, Tito Rey, will sing the national anthem.

Tickets for the event can be purchased at: https://fevo.me/madd22

Check out the Orange County SC Statistics

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