The LA Galaxy, Hollywood United F.C. and the Herbalife Family Foundation today raised more than $100,000 for the American Red Cross and The Salvation Army through a charity match at The Home Depot Center. The match was underwritten by the Herbalife Family Foundation, allowing all proceeds from the match to be donated to the two charities.
Edson Buddle had a hat trick while David Beckham, Mike Caso and Chris Klein each scored twice to help lead the Galaxy to a 12-4 win. A crowd of 5,543 was in attendance at the game to see the Galaxy defeat a collection of Hollywood and soccer stars including actor Anthony LaPaglia, Viv Campbell of Def Leppard, and a number of former international soccer stars such as Frank LeBoeuf, Joe-Max Moore and Alexi Lalas.
"We had a lot of fun, but more importantly we were able to raise some money that will help people in our community," Galaxy President and General Manager Alexi Lalas said. "It was a pleasure and an honor for the Galaxy to be involved in this effort. I want to thank everyone for their support, on and off the field."
In addition to money raised through ticket sales, a series of silent auctions and other donations raised an additional $7,500 for wildfire relief. Some of the items that were auctioned off at the game were an original "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" script signed by actor Michael Douglas, an original "Without a Trace" script signed by actor Anthony LaPaglia of Hollywood United, a guitar signed by Def Leppard guitarist Viv Campbell of Hollywood United, a number of Galaxy team signed items and other autographed memorabilia from the worlds of sports and entertainment.
"We're honored to be a part of this effort to raise money for those affected by the wildfires," said Michael O. Johnson, chairman of the Herbalife Family Foundation. "I'm very proud of all of our independent distributors and employees for supporting this worthy cause."
On Monday, the Galaxy will depart for Vancouver for a friendly game against the USL First Division Whitecaps at 7p.m. on Wednesday, November 7 at BC Place.
