Sons of Ben

Sons of Ben hold “Pints fur Pets” to aid our animal friends

Photos: Earl Gardner

On Sunday, the Sons of Ben did what they do best. Aside from being one of the best supporters groups in Major League Soccer, they flexed their charitable muscle once again to aid those in need in an event called “Pints fur Pets.”

Held at the Field House Sports Bar in Philadelphia, and also at CR Shenanigans in Aston, PA, the event raised money for the Philadelphia ACCT, and the Delaware County Chapter of the SPCA. (The pictures below are from the Field House event.)

Philadelphia Union players were on hand to serve as “guest” bartenders with Conor Casey, Antoine Hoppenot, Sheanon Williams, and Zac MacMath holding down the bar down at the Field House. At CR Shenanigans, it was Sebastien LeToux, Andrew Wenger, Amobi Akugo, and Fred serving the thirsty guests and Union faithful.

In addition to procedes raised from ticket sales for the event, a silent auction was also held to raise money with Union-themed artwork and signed items by the players up for bid.

A Corgi named Major was also named the first “Pets of Ben” following a contest in which Sons of Ben members submitted photos of their pets wearing Union garb on Instagram. Major becomes the first animal to be an official member of the Sons of Ben after garnering 179 votes and received a dog-sized SoB shirt courtesy of Bark Tees.

“This project in particular came about out of mutual love from so many of our Board members who have rescue dogs or cats, or multiples,” explained Sons of Ben Events Director Ami Oristaglio. “We do so much for people in the area, but we also have to remember that these (animals) are family members too.”

Oristaglio described that events such as “Pints fur Pets” can be crucial in providing funding to animal rescue groups in economic hard times. “Projects like this help apply that extra support to help these foundations.”

Over 150 guest were in attendance — not including players and significant others — and so far the event has raised over $3,000, a figure that is still climbing. If you would like to donate to either (or both) of these worthy rescue groups, or even volunteer, be sure to check out wwwacctphilly.org or www.delcospca.org.

Photo by Earl GardnerConor Casey talks to fans

Photo by Earl GardnerSheanon Williams signs a shirt

Photo by Earl GardnerAntoine Hoppenot and Sheanon Williams man the taps

PhotoIs a Bay Breeze the one with pineapple or is it a Sea Breeze?

Photo by Earl GardnerOne happy art collector

Photo by Earl GardnerGood times for a good cause

4 Comments

  1. Zac MacMath – Nobody scores on him except the ladies

  2. One of the unusual joys of following this sport is uncovering just how many of these players are excellent human beings as well, in stark contrast to many employed in the “big 3” US leagues. I’ve never once been to a function with MLS players present when they didn’t seem legitimately engaged in the proceedings and sincere in their interactions with the fans.

    Hats off to the players and of course the SoBs for this fine event. I can’t imagine a better way to spend a Monday night!

  3. The Black Hand says:

    How many wings do you think Casey ate? I’m saying, at least, 30.

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