NEW YORK (March 31, 2015) – The New York Cosmos announced today details of Champions for Children’s Health Night on Saturday, April 18, when the Cosmos’ 2015 NASL Spring Season home opener kicks off against the Tampa Bay Rowdies at Hofstra University’s Shuart Stadium. The Cosmos will work in conjunction with the club’s official partner New York Hospital Queens (NYHQ) to raise funds for, and promote the importance of, children’s health.

The club’s Honorary President Pelé and fellow Cosmos legend, Franz Beckenbauer will be present at the game. Two patients from NYHQ’s pediatric program, along with Pelé and Beckenbauer, will also be honored during a special pregame ceremony.

The Cosmos will donate a portion of the proceeds from ticket sales from the match to NYHQ’s pediatrics programs and services for young children.

“We are grateful to the Cosmos for partnering with us to raise funds that will allow NYHQ to enhance the programs and services that our young patients and their families know and trust,” said Maria Thanjan, M.D., director, Pediatric Cardiology, NYHQ. “We are encouraging everyone we know to attend the opening game in support of our young patients and the Cosmos!”

In addition, New York Cosmos staff and players will continue to visit NYHQ’s inpatient pediatric patients and participate in some NYHQ events during the year.

“We are excited to be working with New York Hospital Queens in support of this important cause,” Cosmos Chief Operating Officer Erik Stover said. “With the support of our fans, we are hoping we can help their Department of Pediatrics raise money and awareness as they continue to provide quality healthcare and services for young children.” 

About New York Hospital Queens

New York Hospital Queens is the official hospital and orthopaedic consultants for the New York Cosmos.  The partnership between NYHQ and the NY Cosmos allows for collaboration on community initiatives, such as fighting childhood obesity, and includes player visits to NYHQ’s inpatient pediatric unit and participation at hospital events. 

NYHQ is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System, and an affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College.  The Department of Pediatrics at NYHQ annually treats approximately 27,000 patients, from birth – age 21, providing a higher level of medical care to children and adolescents—with a gentle approach. This includes personalized attention, a warm, child-friendly environment and services that help make patients and their families feel at ease. For more information about NYHQ, visit www.nyhq.org.

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