DBG Experiences Detroit City FC
Our students had a blast taking in the excitement and high energy of a semi-professional soccer game under the lights in Hamtramck. Thank you to fans who also donated soccer equipment to our program.
Multi-colored smoke exploded from the stands and settled onto the turf as 30 students and chaperones from the Downtown Boxing Gym Youth Program cheered. That was just one of the highlights of a thrilling, fast-paced soccer game July 14 at Keyworth Stadium in Hamtramck. It was the Detroit City Football Club’s regular season finale against Lansing United. For some of our students, it was their first time at a stadium, let alone a live soccer match.
“It was fun and exciting,” said 14 year-old-Madison who added that the atmosphere was “hype.”
Since the team was founded in 2012, Detroit City FC has been dedicated to supporting the community through partnerships and philanthropy. Not only did the club donate tickets to the game, they teamed up with Metro Detroit Chevy Dealers to collect gently used soccer gear for our students to enjoy in our fenced-in outdoor space. Even though our focus is books and boxing, we have some budding soccer players among our 140 students.
“It was great to see the kids having fun and experiencing something new,” said academic coordinator Mike Mroz. “At the Downtown Boxing Gym one of our goals is to give our students access to events and activities they’ve never tried before.”
Thank you to the fans who donated soccer balls, cleats and shin guards to our program and a huge thank you to DCFC for an unforgettable night. For the record, the game ended in a 3-3 tie. Good luck to the home team as they head to the playoffs!
