The relationship between Athena, the foodservice industry and WPFC actually began in the winter of 2007 with the Athena Indoor Invitational Soccer tournament. WPFC and 3 other U-12 clubs got together to raise money and awareness for cancer research. Local Foodservice business’ led by Taco Del Mar and Sysco Foodservices of Seattle, in conjunction with Athena Partners, underwrote the event and pledged a per goal sponsorship totaling $102.00 per goal to be donated to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. The more goals made, the more the teams donated! A total of 55 goals were scored during the 6 game round robin. Additionally, 100% of the team fees were donated to the Cause! The weekend total raised over $6400. Athena was founded by ex-Microsoft and breast cancer survivor Trish May for the sole purpose of supporting women’s cancer research. Athena is the mythological Goddess of war, wisdom and the useful crafts. Not bad traits for our young, female soccer players to emulate. This event was a great starting point as Athena founder Trish May was on hand to speak to the girls and encourage them.
Fast forward to today and through a consortium of foodservice vendors, some of which were along in the beginning, we’ve been able to create a scholarship fund, donation to Fred Hutch and a community service program that we believe will provide a long lasting foundation for giving in these soccer players.
Being healthy is taken for granted when you are young and our players are no different in that belief. However, most families would have to raise their hand when asked if they have had a family member, relative or someone they know to have been affected by cancer. That’s why we’ve created this alliance.
We believe this sponsorship is the first of it’s kind in Club soccer and look forward to spreading the word that Clubs across the country can make a difference in curing cancer and we look forward to being a leader in that roll.
Throughout the year, WPFC will promote amongst their members volunteer opportunities, educational tours and a variety of other activities built on the belief that our Club membership will embrace these chances to get involved, learn about the importance of giving back, and grow in the knowledge that each individual can make a difference.
