The New York Red Bulls held a meet and greet session for all Red Members at Red Bull Arena on Saturday, June 2nd. Fans in attendance had the chance to see their favorite players up close, as well as have some of their memorabilia signed by the team.
Longtime fans and new supporters showed up in droves to introduce themselves to the Red Bulls, who are currently in second place in the Eastern Conference, just a single point behind D.C United. The only members from the squad that were not present at the event were those who have been called up for international duty.
Elizan Morales, who hails from Middlesex, NJ, is a long-time fan who was on hand for Saturday's event. Morales was most excited to see striker Kenny Cooper, who leads the Red Bulls with eleven goals this season.
“To me he’s the fresh blood for this team,” said Morales, “and he is going to set the standard for this team to build up.”
Morales was not the only fan who wanted to get their items signed by Cooper, as many people lined up to meet the New York forward. Morales was also excited to see rookie Connor Lade, who scored his first professional goal in New York’s 3-0 victory over the Charleston Battery.
Of course, fans like Nico and Frederick Eiden from Essex Fells, NJ, were also thrilled to meet forward Thierry Henry.
“I’m most excited to see Henry because of how he shoots,” Nico said.
Nico’s father, Frederick, had some reasons of his own for wanting to see the international superstar.
“He is a great role model for the kids and he has the ability to save the game,” said Frederick.
Fans aren't the only ones who get to enjoy the autograph session. The players also enjoy an opportunity to meet the fans who support them throughout the season, especially newcomers like defender Heath Pearce, who was acquired May 17th in a trade that sent Juan Agudelo to Chivas USA.
“Obviously we have a great set of fans so I’m excited to meet some of them,” Pearce said. “It’s a great chance for us as a team to show our support for the supporters.”
The signing took place directly following a training session on the pitch at Red Bull Arena, but Pearce had no problem cutting his rest short in order to come out and meet the fans.
“It’s never a hassle,” Peace said. “It’s always important for us to come out here and show the fans that we appreciate everything that they do for us. We’re thankful for all the time they take to support us, so this is the least we can do.”
To learn how you can become a membership card holder,
visit Red Bulls Ticket Central
.
