The July break has been busy for the Washington Spirit. The women’s professional soccer club introduced its new coach and welcomed superstar Trinity Rodman back from injury. Team owner Michele Kang capped the month with a $100,000 donation to local charities on Wednesday.
Ms. Kang was named the Sports Philanthropist of the Year at the ESPY awards this month. She celebrated the occasion by giving $50,000 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington and a matching gift to the youth-supporting DC Scores.
The two organizations received their oversized checks while Spirit players Croix Bethune and Makenna Morris led local children in soccer drills.
“The giving back part is important; I want to be that role model that [kids] can look up to,” said Bethune. “Kids are funny; they’re fun to be around, and it’s always a good time.”
The event took place at a Boys & Girls Club in Southeast D.C. The organization renamed its rear garden in honor of the team.
The Spirit return to the pitch on Aug. 3 for a home match against Portland Thorns FC.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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