Western New York Flash Raises Over $10K – Atlanta Silverbacks To Participate In Superhero Classic
Soccer is a universal language that brings everyone together. Here are two examples of professional soccer teams making a difference towards the fight against cancer.
Western New York Flash
The Western New York Flash visited Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) and presented the hospital with a check for $10,385, which was raised at the Flash’s annual Pink Game on Saturday, August 29.
“We are so thankful for the donation,” said RPCI breast surgeon Jennifer Young. “I think we really are offering the latest in technology for screening, minimally-invasive procedures and different treatments for chemotherapy [at Roswell Park] but really we couldn’t do it without support in the community, like the Western New York Flash. We are really proud to serves as [the Flash’s] Official Cancer Center and, with events like the Pink Game, it’s an amazing support we couldn’t do without.”
At Saturday’s match, fans had the opportunity to win multiple raffle prizes throughout the evening, including game-worn, limited-edition pink jerseys and donation baskets designed by the Flash players themselves. 100% of the profits from the raffles were donated to Roswell Park for breast cancer research and breast care programs. The Flash also donated a portion of proceeds from the team’s annual Salute to Women’s Soccer clinic, which was held on Tuesday at Sahlen’s Stadium for nearly 200 youth soccer players.
“It was an honor to have the opportunity to partner with Roswell and pass on these proceeds,” Flash assistant general manager Mike Cipolla said at the presentation. “At the end of the day, we are here to present a check but the real reason is for what we are going to do afterwards – meet some patients and hopefully put a smile on their face.”
Following the check presentation, the Flash visited with patients in the comprehensive care unit at RPCI and gave away a number of items including autographed gear and team scarves.
Atlanta Silverbacks
During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the entire Atlanta Silverbacks organization — each of the professional players, the coaching staff, and the Club’s front office — will participate in the 15th annual Suwanee Fest Superhero 5K/10K Classic to benefit CURE Childhood Cancer, a non-profit research organization based in the metro Atlanta area. Hosted by Georgia Fitness on the morning of Sept. 12 at the Suwanee Town Center, proceeds from the Superhero Classic will help CURE continue to provide research, counseling, meals and financial assistance for those battling childhood cancer.
This year’s Superhero Classic falls on a bye weekend for the Silverbacks in the midst of a playoff push in North American Soccer League competition, allowing a true team effort for the entire Club to support CURE Childhood Cancer. Head coach Gary Smith, the current 23-man roster of professional players, and staff members from the Club’s front office will take part in the event, joining the fight with CURE and Georgia Fitness.
“When we heard about this event, hosted by our official team gym Georgia Fitness Pro, we had no hesitation with getting everyone involved,” Smith said. “The timing of the race was a cherry on top, since we don’t have a match and everyone is available to fight for this cause. All of the guys are beyond excited, from the coaches down to the players and front office.”
Registration is currently open for both individuals and teams to join the Silverbacks, Georgia Fitness and the rest of the Superhero Classic’s participants.
“All the lads are behind this,” Silverbacks captain and center back Simon Mensing said. “We know we’ll see all our supporters there as well as some new faces. These events are the one’s that matter in the grand scheme of things. We are professional soccer players, but raising awareness and helping others are much more important than the game we play for a living.”
Between the 5K, 10K and Flash Fun Run races, runners of all levels can easily join in the Superhero Classic, which can also count as a Peachtree Road Race qualifier. The 5K will begin at 7:30 a.m., followed by the 10K at 8:30 a.m. and the 1K Flash Fun Run at 8:35 a.m. A virtual Superhero Classic option will allow racers to support CURE’s cause even if they’re unable to attend the Sept. 12 races in person.
“There is nothing better than getting involved with the community to unite for a cause,” Silverbacks president and general manager Andy Smith said. “Our entire organization will be involved, raising awareness to find a cure for childhood cancer.”
