Today MLS WORKS, Major League Soccer’s community outreach initiative, announced that the League will “go gold” throughout September, raising awareness and funds during Childhood Cancer Awareness month. The League-wide campaign will be promoted nationally on MLS broadcasts, in-stadium, on social and digital channels and by all 22 MLS clubs through various local activations.
National efforts will benefit Children’s Oncology Group, the world’s largest organization devoted exclusively to childhood and adolescent cancer research, uniting more than 9,000 experts in childhood cancer at more than 200 leading children’s hospitals around the world.
League-wide campaign highlights:
- Commemorative gold adidas Nativo 2017 Official Match Ball to be used during all matches
- Kick Childhood Cancer gold captain’s armband
- Players and PRO referees will wear special edition Kick Childhood Cancer t-shirts during pre-game activities
- Players will wear a commemorative gold ribbon jersey patch throughout September
- Coaches and training staff will be provided with club specific Kick Childhood Cancer scarves
- Gold corner flags and goal nets will be featured throughout the month
- Autographed, game-worn memorabilia will be auctioned off online beginning September 22
“We are committed to the fight against cancer through our Soccer Kicks Cancer program,” said JoAnn Neale, Chief Administrative & Social Responsibility Officer, MLS. “Each year we aspire to make an even greater impact in this fight by raising awareness and funds dedicated to finding a cure for all types of cancer.”
Fans are encouraged to support the campaign by posting images with their Kick Childhood Cancer scarf, or their favorite club scarves, on Instagram and Twitter using #ScarvesUp to celebrate Scarftember (an annual celebration of the soccer scarf throughout the month of September). MLS WORKS will make a donation to Children’s Oncology Group for each post that includes the hashtag. Fans can also make a donation on the League’s Crowdfunding Webpage.
Kick Childhood Cancer scarves and t-shirts have been designed by emerging illustrator Maria Lauren Lambiris. The scarves and t-shirts, along with other Kick Childhood Cancer apparel, will be available on MLSstore.com and at select in-stadium retailers. Proceeds will benefit Children's Oncology Group.
For more information on Kick Childhood Cancer and other MLS WORKS initiatives, click here.
