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The Chicago Red Stars have partnered with the Orlando Pride and other NWSL clubs to raise funds for Breast Cancer Awareness, in a response of support around Orlando defender Toni Pressley, who announced she was diagnosed with breast cancer back on August 7.
Per a news release, all NWSL teams have rallied together for an online auction to benefit the charity of Pressley’s choice. All profits from the auction will go to Libby’s Legacy - an Orlando based non-profit that provides comprehensive breast cancer resources to the underserved. Libby’s Legacy has provided over 7,000 Breast Health services, diagnosed/navigated over 155 breast cancer patients.
The online auction will feature items from all NWSL clubs, with items signed by players like Alex Morgan. For Chicago Red Stars fans, the auction will include a pair of “LVL UP” boots from Sam Kerr among other items.
“I can’t put into words what it means to have the support of the teams and players across the entire league,” Pressley said. “I appreciate everyone’s thoughtfulness and contributions to raise awareness for something that impacts, not just myself, but so many others.”
The entire Chicago Red Stars organization is with you @Toni_Deion. #OneLeague pic.twitter.com/Zb8UUvwReS
— Chicago Red Stars (@chiredstarsPR) August 21, 2019
The auction was initiated by Casey Short, Alyssa Naeher, and the rest of the Chicago Red Stars who wanted to show their support for Pressley and others impacted by breast cancer
“The team here wanted to show our support to Toni during this time. I played with Toni during my time at Florida State and have always admired the person she is on the field, but more so off the field,” said Short. “The fact that we can come together as a league and put these items up for auction, not just us to show our love for Toni, but for our fans as well, is nothing short of amazing.”
The auction was announced on Wednesday night, during halftime of the Pride’s match against the Red Stars, and will run from now until Friday, October 10. Those interested in participating in the charity auction can do so here.
“The fact that we can come together as a league and put these items up for auction, not just us to show our love for Toni, but for our fans as well, is nothing short of amazing,”