Written by Vince Zahra
Artesian Soccer and the Oly Soccer Foundation will hold their third annual fundraising gala night to support youth aid and local soccer programs on Saturday, March 23rd at Nicole's Bar Off Legion in downtown Olympia, Washington.
FC Olympia also announced on its website on Monday that former U.S. MNT goalkeeper and Olympia native Casey Keller will be attending the fundraising dinner as the evening's keynote speaker.
“We were humbled by Casey Keller's address to our supporters at the O'Ree Soccer Foundation Gala on March 23,” said Ryan Perkins, principal owner of FC Olympia. “His career is truly remarkable considering the number of years he played professionally in Europe and the number of appearances he made on the U.S. national team.”
hometown hero
Keller began his prolific soccer career as a player from Olympia, where he was born and raised, attended North Thurston High School, and found early success in college soccer with the NCAA Division I University of Portland Pilots, while also attending Port He also played for the Lando Timbers. He was also called up to the U.S. U-20 national team during the college offseason.
Since then, Keller has started his career to new heights as a professional soccer player, having featured in the English Premier League, Spanish La Liga and Germany's Bundesliga, before retiring to play for Seattle Sounders FC in MLS, where he joined them. led. In the three seasons he played there he won three consecutive US Open Cups.
The first American goalkeeper to earn a regular spot in three of Europe's most prestigious leagues, he was a starter on the U.S. men's national team and won 102 caps in his international career from 1990 to 2007, with fans receiving 10 games. I remember him famously. His CONCACAF Gold in 1998 His Cup semi-finals saw the USMNT score his 1-0 upset victory over Brazil. To his name he has won the CONCACAF Gold Cup four times.
In addition to Casey Keller, guest speakers will include former Pro Reign FC player and Olympic gold medalist Stephanie Cox and City of Lacey Mayor Andy Rider.
“Our purpose is to build soccer opportunities for local children and inspire the next generation of players,” Perkins said. “From the incredible high school and college athletes who travel from all over the world to play USL soccer every summer, to the local youth summer camps and clinics held year-round.”
“We want to provide a next-level space for local youth soccer players to grow and achieve their soccer dreams,” Perkins continued.
The event will feature several fundraisers, dinner and a live band after the event.
For $40, you get a ticket that can only be purchased online, food at the door, and seats for the most anticipated and great soccer speakers.
Tickets can be purchased at the 2024 Oly Soccer Gala Fundraiser at givebutter.com. More information about the event can be found at www.fcoly.com.