Back in January, I received an email from Neven Subotic. If you follow the game you know Neven #4 plays center back for Borussia Dortmund. Dortmund is one of the best clubs in Europe (currently the only unbeaten team in the Champions League). Neven contacted me and asked if I’d give him a call, so I did.
A lot has happened since then. Over the past few months we’ve worked together (with the help of Vox United and Food for the Hungry) to organize a youth soccer tournament for the kids of rural Mozambique.
In mid June, after the Champions League finals, I’ll be flying out and meeting Neven in Mozambique. We’re hosting the tournament, leading a training clinic and hand-delivering over 500 new Adidas soccer balls. The entire project is called the Play [well] Cup and is being presented by Charity Ball and the Neven Subotic Foundation. My coach and trainer, Brent Kowalski, who founded Heart Soccer Academy, will be joining us in Africa to help lead the training clinic. We’re also underwriting the installation of 2 new water wells so the people can drink clean water. One well has already been sponsored and my brother, Jade is leading the charge to find sponsors for the second one.
Mozambique (in southern Africa) is one of the poorest countries in the world. Most kids who live in these difficult situations will never have an opportunity to touch a real soccer ball, let alone own one, and then meet a professional soccer player from Europe. It will be a once-in-a-lifetime event.
Pulling off something like this requires a lot of work and some sweet sponsors. Right now half of the project is being sponsored by Charity Ball, Neven Subotic Foundation, Bumpy Pitch, Iedesigns, Heart Soccer Academy and few other anonymous donors.
It’s going to be amazing!
Want to help?
Here are two things you can do to help:
1. Business or Club Sponsorships
I’m looking for like-minded people, businesses and soccer clubs that will invest and help make the project happen. My goal is to have all the project funds secured by May 1. If you like what we’re doing, we could really use your financial support. Contributions can be made toward the bottom of the Donate Page under “Make a General Donation”
If you’re connected to businesses or clubs that might be interested, let me know. If you have any questions, drop me an email or tweet. I’d be happy to talk with you.
2. Give Clean Water
The new community well that Jade is raising money for costs about $5K. He’s raised about $1K. This well will give close to 1500 people sustainable, clean water. If you do the math, that’s just a little over $3 per person. For $3 you can give someone the gift of clean water and the gift of life. If you want to help, you can donate here.
Thanks for caring. Thanks for helping.
