HOUSTON - In response to the tragedy at Virginia Tech University, the Houston Dynamo has organized a tribute and fundraiser to raise money for the University's Hokie Spirit Memorial Fund.
The tribute and fundraiser will take place Sunday, April 29 when Dynamo take on the Chicago Fire at Robertson Stadium.
The Dynamo will wear special uniforms that night featuring the Virginia Tech colors of maroon and orange, and after the match, the uniforms will be auctioned off with all the proceeds going to the Memorial Fund. Fans can participate in the auction online and at Robertson Stadium the night of the match.
"Growing up in Virginia, I knew people who went to Virginia Tech. I didn't know anyone who goes there now, but being from the state, you have some kind of connection to the university," said Dynamo defender Wade Barrett, who went attended William & Mary University.
"It feels good to know that we can help out in some way. It was a terrible tragedy and there's not a whole lot that we can do, but this is a small way we can show our support."
The Dynamo has established a special fundraising ticket offer for the Chicago game where for every ticket purchased through the special offer, $8 will be donated to the Memorial Fund. This offer will be available through the Houston Dynamo website, www.houstondynamo.com and www.ticketmaster.com. Fans are asked to use promotional code "VT" when purchasing the special tickets.
"I think it's great as champion of the league that we are the first team to step forward," said Dynamo head coach Dominic Kinnear. "I think we are a big team in MLS. This is a great idea from our front office.
"I think it will gain a lot of interest for the goodwill of Major League Soccer. I think most importantly, we can't replace their feelings or memories, but if we can do anything in particular financially to help the situation, I think it's a wonderful idea."
Jeremy Rakes is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
