Bobby Burling and Jared Watts have been recognized for their selflessness as defenders, but after partnering with Coca-Cola to visit active duty service members and their families they say they are humbled by the real-life sacrifices of the United States military men and women.
Earlier this month Burling and Watts took a trip to Rocky Mountain United Service Organization (USO) in Fort Carson to conduct an afternoon of soccer clinics with over 50 military children ranging from 8-12 years old.
The USO is a nonprofit organization that strives to provide an atmosphere where troops and their families can decompress from the rigors of their daily lives.
The visit was especially significant to Burling who had the opportunity to share his personal story of growing up in a military family, as his father was a member of the United States Air Force.
“Being from a military family and living on an Air Force base growing up, it brought back a lot of memories from my youth,” Burling said. “Having a parent away for long periods of time could always be tough on the family. It was great to see the kids working hard, and smiling while playing soccer.”
The duo shared that their main objective for the visit was to spend the afternoon with the children, and bring a smile to their faces all while incorporating the beautiful game.
“The highlight of the clinic for me was to see how much it meant to the kids to interact with professional athletes. Some of these kids were playing soccer for the first time,” Watts said. “I had a mother come tell me her daughter said it was the most fun she’d ever had playing a sport.”
Following the soccer clinics, the players signed autographs, posed for photos, and passed out Colorado Rapids gear.
“It was an honor to meet true heroes who serve our country so we have the chance to live our daily lives in peace,” Watts said.
A few lucky participants were awarded tickets to the Rapids’ August 5th match against Vancouver Whitecaps FC for Military Appreciation Night, presented by Coca-Cola, where the club will celebrate our armed forces.
“Military Appreciation Night is one of the most special events of the year,” said Rapids Director of Communications Ryan Madden “To have so many members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families with us is a tremendous honor for the club, as well as the entire Kroenke Sports and Entertainment family. It will be a very special night.”
Throughout the game, there will be several tributes to the U.S. Armed Forces, including representation of each military branch in the Honor Guard, a halftime enlistment ceremony, Heroes recognition, and a $10,000 donation to the USO on behalf of the Rapids and Coca-Cola. In addition, Air Force Academy all-male a capella group In the Stairwell will be singing the National Anthem following their recent performance on America's Got Talent.
Prior to the match, fans can also visit Burgundy Boulevard behind Eighteen76 for a variety of Military Vehicles and Activities, including an obstacle course for kids and adults. In addition, Burgundy Boulevard will have face painters, a DJ, as well as a Bud Burgundy Concert Series Live Performance by The Coteries at 7:00 p.m. Several other special events will occur throughout the day.
Military tickets are free with the purchase of an additional ticket to the match. For more information, or to purchase tickets, please visit ColoradoRapids.com or call 303-825-GOAL.
