SAN JOSE, Calif. –
San Jose Earthquakes goalkeeper David Bingham handed over a check for $10,500 to Bracher Elementary School after club sponsor BMW promised to donate $100 for each save he made in the 2015 season.
The Bay Area native tallied 105 saves over the campaign and, thanks to the BMW Saves for Schools initiative, was able to present the check on Tuesday afternoon.
“I am delighted to hand over the check and would also like to thank BMW for their generosity,” said Bingham, who delivered the check to Principal Wayne Leach. “I hope the money can make a difference and I will be doing everything I can to make it even more this season – although I don’t want to have too many saves to make!”
Bingham, 26, kept opponents scoreless in 12 matches during the 2015 season – equaling a club record – and received his first call up to the United States Men’s National Team in January.
“It is important that businesses support the local community,” said Rax Patel, manager of Stevens Creek BMW. “It’s good for the kids to know that local business and sports teams believe they are important. It was great to see the smiles on the kids’ faces.”
The San Jose Earthquakes Community Fund and BMW selected Bracher to be the recipient of the donation. Situated in Santa Clara, the elementary school has 60% of students eligible for free or reduced-price lunches, while 43% use English as a second language. Around 350 children packed the school’s assembly hall to witness the presentation.
“On behalf of Bracher I just want to say thank you so much to the Earthquakes and BMW,” said school principal Mr Leach. “This money will go so far. It will provide opportunities for field trips and a chance for the kids to experience new things. This is awesome.”
