D.C. United announced today it will form an official partnership with DC Tobacco Free Families (DCTFF), a partnership of the American Lung Association of DC, the American Cancer Society, and the DC Department of Health. United midfielder and 2006 MLS MVP Christian Gomez will serve as the campaign's spokesman in an effort to reach out to the Latino community.
"We are delighted to partner with D.C. United on this important work to make all communities smoke-free," said Rolando Andrewn, the executive Director of the American Lung Association in D.C. "We are honored to have Christian Gomez lend his voice to educate the Latino community on the positive health benefits of leading a smoke-free life."
Through the partnership, D.C. United has created a co-branded ultra-decal for the campaign. DC TFF's quit line will be highlighted on field boards, public announcements, and the electric scoreboard. A public service announcement will air at RFK at D.C. United games and in local media outlets. DCTFF will also be a supporting sponsor of United's October 20th game against the Columbus Crew, presenting the game's halftime mini-games. In July, DCTFF was a supporting sponsor of D.C. United's annual Latin American Festival.
As the campaign's official spokesman, Gomez will communicate the health benefits of quitting smoking to adults. He will also encourage children not to start smoking.
"Christian Gomez will be an excellent voice in making the quit smoking message heard not just in the DC Latino community but in every community that wants to improve the health of its members," added Andrewn.
Gomez joined United midseason in 2004 from Argentine club Nueva Chicago. Since joining the club, he helped the club to the 2004 MLS Cup and has been named a 2005, 2006, and 2007 MLS All-Star, to the 2005 MLS Best XI team, and as the 2006 MLS MVP.
