United awards reception raises more than $16,000; recognizes United players

Last night, at the Atlas Theater in Washington DC, United for D.C. hosted the Sixth Annual United Awards Reception, presented by NavigationArts.  More than 200 people attended the event, emceed by Russ Thaler and Tony Limarzi.  The event raised over, $16,000 and proceeds will go to benefit the D.C. United’s 501(c)3 foundation.  Supported by Clark Construction and Arent Fox, the United Awards Reception also served as an opportunity for the club to honor United players for their on-field accomplishments as well as recognize the impact of United for D.C. in the community.

Honored at the event were D.C. United’s 2009 award winners, while the ceremony included speakers, highlight videos and trophy presentations.  Clyde Simms (Most Valuable Player), Luciano Emilio (Budweiser Golden Boot), Bryan Namoff (VISA Defender of the Year and Goal of the Year), Devon McTavish (US Soccer Foundation/MLS W.O.R.K.S. Humanitarian of the Year), Chris Pontius (Volkswagen Fans’ Choice) and Rodney Wallace (Coaches Award) all took home honors for their play in 2009.

In its seventh year of existence, United for D.C. has further established itself as one of the most creative and efficient foundations in Washington, D.C.  Through three primary initiatives, the organization touches countless lives.  United Soccer Club, an after-school program created at the request of underserved local residents, provides an organized outlet for children to play soccer at ten different locations twice a week.   The Kicks for Kids program will bring more than 7,000 underprivileged youth to watch United play this season alone. United Reads, currently presented in six DC elementary schools, distributes books during player visits to classrooms.