May 15, 2024 – National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL)
NJ/NY Gotham FC News Release
HARRISON, NJ – Reinforcing the club’s commitment to providing mental health resources for those on and off the pitch, Gotham FC today announced the details of Mental Health Awareness Night presented by RWJBarnabas Health, which will take place on Sunday, May 19 at the Gotham FC vs. Chicago Red Stars match at Red Bull Arena (5 p.m. ET, MSG / NWSL+).
On the field, the match will be a star-studded showdown. Gotham FC forward Lynn Williams is closing in on the leagues’ all-time, all competitions scoring record, as she leads a Gotham FC team that has scored in each of the last five games up against a Chicago Red Stars side with scoring sensation Mallory Swanson and U.S. Women’s National Team goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher.
The Gotham FC Fan Fest presented by CarMax will open at 2:30 p.m. outside Red Bull Arena’s Gate B, with fan activities that feature small-sided games on the Mini Pitch powered by RWJBarnabas Health in addition to a sign-making station, and a live, on-stage performance by the hit local band Atomic Funk Project.
In support of the night’s initiative, Gotham FC and the club’s official health care provider RWJBarnabas Health will highlight organizations onsite and provide materials that champion mental health throughout the matchday experience.
The Society for Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTS) and the Eating Disorders Program at RWJUH Somerset part of RWJBarnabas Health Behavioral Health Services, will have representatives in Fan Fest to share resources and programming with fans at the stadium, while handmade jewelry vendor Live Rainbowfully will have specially crafted items inspired in support of positive mental health.
Prior to kickoff, actress Jennifer Esposito and sailor Cole Brauer will serve as honorary torchbearers to take part in a Gotham FC home game tradition. Esposito and Brauer will join members of the community and the club’s passionate supporters group for the ceremonial pregame lighting of an eight-foot tall torch that ignites with a live flame before kickoff.
The national anthem will be performed by musical artist Dopico.
Visit Gotham FC.com for more tickets and more information on Gotham FC vs. Chicago Red Stars on Sunday, May 19 at Red Bull Arena for Mental Health Awareness Night presented by RWJBarnabas Health. For additional information about mental health services available through RWJBarnabas Health, please visit rwjbh.org/behavioralhealth.
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