BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Birmingham Legion FC is proud to announce that its first efforts in keeping the local rivers clean and pristine were a rousing success. In partnership with Cahaba River Society and Black Warrior Riverkeeper, the Legion FC River Cleanup Project oversaw more than a thousand pounds of waste collected at both the Cahaba River and East Lake Park – a tributary of the Black Warrior River.
“We are proud to have worked with our local riverkeepers to provide our future generations a safe space to live and enjoy.” said Legion FC Community Engagement Manager Julio Sanclemente. “The club is committed to the preservation of these beautiful and crucial areas and we look forward to continuing and expanding our efforts for many more years to come.”
The project made its first stop on Wednesday, October 30 with Legion FC front office staff, along with members from Cahaba River Society and Alabama Power canoeing down Little Cahaba River to collect 658 pounds of assorted trash and debris. The mission continued on Friday, November 1 with Legion FC goalkeeper Matt Van Oekel, midfielder Jake Rufe and Defender Phanuel Kavita joining Black Warrior Riverkeeper in picking up 524 pounds of waste in and around East Lake Park.
“We had a great time on the Little Cahaba River and at East Lake Park with Legion FC and Black Warrior Riverkeeper,” Cahaba River Society Fields Programs Director Will Rainer said. “Water is a universal but finite resource and it’s always so wonderful to have so many organizations aligned around a singular goal of cleaner Alabama waters.”
Legion FC thanks the Cahaba River Society and Black Warrior Riverkeeper for partnering with the club for this worthwhile endeavor. The club also extends its gratitude to all of the volunteers who came out on either day to help make the event possible. After a successful first outing, Legion FC is in the process of planning for more future stops for its River Cleanup Project.
For more information and to get involved, contact Sanclemente at jsanclemente@bhmlegion.com.
