Locos First Event A Success
3.28.11
As the Union posted their first victory of the season, the Locos, Reading United’s inaugural supporters group, chalked up a win of their own. After unveiling their logo and raising more than $1,000 for the Reading and Berks County’s Marsh Madness Plunge for Kids, their first philanthropic effort was a major success.
The event, held at Blue Marsh Lake, saw more than 500 people plunge into the lake. While only two of these plungers were actually “Loco” enough to take a quick dip, the larger impression was made through the group’s monetary donations from friends, family, supporters group members, and a generous contribution from an anonymous local company. The 5th annual event rose over $37,000 towards the YMCA’s Strong Kids Annual Support Campaign, which provides financial assistance to children and families towards YMCA programs and camps.
Last year’s event raised nearly $30,000 and sent 125 kids to summer camp, let 150 kids participate in values-based youth sport programs, and gave 180 teens the opportunity to become
members of our teen center for a safe place with hot meals after school.
The Locos, who draw their name from the Spanish word for “crazy” and a spin on Reading’s locomotive history, is in the process of becoming a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, much like other similar soccer supporter groups. Their logo is inspired by Berks County’s rich German heritage and Reading United landmarks, such as the shamrock (to support former owner Archie Moylan) and lightning bolts (to support former Reading Rage Soccer Club member Taylor “Flash” Seitzinger).
After the event, Trooper Thorn’s Irish Pub was gracious enough to host a Union viewing party and official log unveiling, as more than 35 fans came out to support the Locos and the Union’s victory over the Houston Dynamo. There was plenty of chanting and singing resonating through the pub, as well as t-shirt and raffle ticket sales that will finish off the Locos donation to the YMCA.
“This day shows exactly what soccer supporters groups are all about: supporting their team, and giving back to the community. If we can do this kind of philanthropic effort with only a limited number of initial members, I can’t wait to see what we can do when the Locos grow in numbers,” said Ryan Lineaweaver, Reading United Assistant General Manager and Club Liaison to the Locos.
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