Professional Soccer Team to Play Newtown Team on Thursday

On Thursday, the United Soccer League’s New York Red Bull II team will face the Newtown Pride FC of the Connecticut Soccer League in a game that will benefit Newtown Youth & Family Services.

The evening will kick off at 6:30 p.m. outside of The Ballpark at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport with a fun interactive fan zone where all ages are welcome to join in the fun.

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The stadium will transform into a fun soccer atmosphere for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff under the lights. The first 1,000 fans in the stadium will receive a free “We Are Newtown” t-shirt.

Tickets vary in price point starting at $12 with group and family discounts available. Those interested in purchasing tickets can do so by logging onto Newtown Youth & Family Services website and clicking on the “Events” tab. Tickets will also be available at the gate.

All net proceeds from the event, including ticket sales and proceeds from a silent auction held that evening, will go to Newtown Youth & Family Services.

“We are proud to be a part of this event,” said New York Red Bulls II general manager Shaun Oliver in a prepared statement. “The opportunity to play in a match for this cause, and use the game of soccer as a conduit to enrich the lives of children in our community, is something that we as an organization are excited about.”

For over 30 years, Newtown Youth & Family Services has been providing mental health and community support services to the Greater Newtown area. NYFS continues to provide after school activities, support groups, social groups for children with autism spectrum disorder, and programs for preschool, youth, and teens - as well as provide financial assistance for counseling to children and families.

“NYFS is very honored to be able to collaborate with the Newtown Pride and New York Red Bulls II to enhance the services we provide for the community,” said NYFS Executive Director Candice Bohr. “There is no better way to develop a team partnership like that of Newtown Pride and NYFS than watching two highly skilled teams work together for a common goal! We are excited to watch the New York Red Bulls II and our very own Newtown Pride challenge one another. Thank you to both organizations for their support and helping us continue to fulfill our mission.”

Newtown Pride coach Mike Svanda added, “We’re so pleased this event has come to fruition. When the tragedy at Sandy Hook took place, we were devastated, as many people were. We were trying to think of a way to help affect change, a real difference for the future. We wanted to play soccer games to raise awareness and bring families together. Our goal is to play soccer to raise funds and awareness for the Newtown Youth & Family Services, and to help implement programs for peer-to-peer mentoring. It is amazing to see the New York Red Bull organization come together for this cause and it’s an honor to be a part of this great event.”