Today the Portland Timbers did a Make-A-Wish event where they played a game against the Green Machine, a team of 8 year olds. The event was in honor of Atticus who found out he had cancer when he had pain while playing with his team last year. He missed their final match because of his treatments.
He wanted his wish to include his teammates.
3000 fans attended the match which was during lunch hour. The supporters group made special banners and signs and revised the chants in favor of the Green Machine. There is no way to convey how amazing it was to be a part of this event.
There’s a great video recap here.
The Oregonian has a terrific photo essay here. There’s also a Facebook photostream here.
Even Deadspin couldn’t come up with anything bad to say about it.
A few highlights:
The Green Machine won 10-9 with Atticus scoring 4 goals including the game winner.
The post game remarks note: “It was the first loss for the Timbers since March 9.”
When the Timbers came onto the field they were booed and serenaded with around of “Go home you bums.” They also got booed every time they scored. The Timbers team captain Will Johnson was busted with a couple of fouls and was booted out of the game with a red card while his teammates protested.
In the first half the Timbers fielded 4 players and I don’t remember how many the Green Machine had, maybe 8. In the second half the Green Machine’s entire bench was on the field and it was hilarious watching the Timbers try to do anything when surrounded by Green Machine players.
At the end of the match, the team captain traded jerseys with Atticus and then put the tiny jersey on.
Updated to add: Here’s a better video clip. The whole thing is great but the bit when the Green Machine see their locker room is priceless.
So sweet!