Craig Willinger Fund

US Men’s National Team surprises young cancer survivor with meet-and-greet in Natal, Brazil

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 30, 2014

Baltimore, MD — As the 9th honoree of Baltimore-based charity Craig Willinger Fund, 17-year-old Hannah Smith of Murrysville, Pennsylvania thought her wildest soccer dreams came true when she was awarded a trip to Natal, Brazil to see the U.S. Men’s National Team face Ghana in the first round of Group Stage play. Little did she know that there was more in store for her than just the game.

Thanks to a special invite from U.S. Soccer, Hannah was surprised with an exclusive meet-and-greet with the team at the Serhs Natal Grand Hotel that included an autograph and photo session with all the players and presentation of custom jerseys to commemorate her visit with the team. USMNT team captain Clint Dempsey also surprised her with an autographed pair of his cleats.

In addition to this amazing experience courtesy of U.S. Soccer, Hannah’s story was also featured on SI.com’s Planet Futbol. “I’ve never been more nervous in my life,” Hannah shared with Sports Illustrated and Fox Sports journalist Grant Wahl as she recounted her time meeting the team.

The Craig Willinger Fund seeks to improve the lives of children and young adults stricken with cancer by providing once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to experience world-class soccer – both domestically and abroad. Honorees have traveled to South Africa, Barcelona, Milan, Madrid, London, New York City and Manchester. CWFund is actively seeking applications for future travel, as well as volunteer and community support. Visit www.cwfund.org for more information.