September 10, 2021 – Major League Soccer (MLS) – Inter Miami CF News Release
Inter Miami CF hosted a First Responders Fútbol Tournament at Inter Miami CF Training Center this afternoon as part of the Club’s initiatives in remembrance of the tragic events that occurred 20 years ago on September 11, 2001.
To honor our first responder heroes, Broward County and Miami-Dade County first responders teamed up and played a match on the AutoNation Community Field, while also enjoying an afternoon of fútbol and food to honor in unity the fallen heroes of the past. Additionally, Inter Miami Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Chris Henderson, goalkeeper Drake Callender and defender Ventura Alvarado were present at the event to show their appreciation for our first responder heroes.
“This exceeded our expectations, it was amazing. We were treated amazingly by the Club,” said Miami-Dade Police Chief Chris Carothers. “To do it as a remembrance game and the way the Club embraced us and loved the concept was great, we are so thankful and we feel the support of the Club.”
“It was a great turnout and it was a lot of fun… It’s definitely important, especially this year being the 20th anniversary. Everyone was excited to come out here,” stated Broward County Firefighter and Paramedic Geovanny Vallejo.
“It means so much being able to come out here and see these guys playing soccer and acknowledging the work that they do”, said Callender. “I just want to say thank you guys. I understand that it’s not an easy job, with them showing up everyday and serving the community when we needed it the most.”
In addition to today’s special event, Saturday’s match between Inter Miami and Columbus Crew at DRV PNK Stadium will include numerous recognitions to honor the nation’s heroes. Operation Sergeant Major Steven Webley will join the AutoNation pregame show on My33 and the Inter Miami App. The first responders that participated in Friday’s fútbol tournament will then be invited to the match and will hold one of the United States flags that will be displayed during the national anthem ceremony, which will be performed by Kennedi Nikol. A moment of silence will also be held prior to the start of the match in remembrance of the fallen heroes of September 11, 2001. Lastly, Inter Miami, along with all Major League Soccer (MLS) teams, will wear special patches on their kits.
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