Each month, D.C. United highlights a Season Ticket Holder of the Month for their dedication to and passion for United. This month, Ben Smoke, a 12-year-old STH has been awarded the honor.
Through a series of emails with his father, Jonathon, Ben answered questions about his Black-and-Red fandom. When asked about his level of passion for DCU, Ben answered with one word—“die-hard.”
Ben’s father said as soon as they moved here, with the family’s love for soccer, he bought a season ticket plan. Ben started coming to games at 10-years-old, and his favorite player has been Chris Pontius ever since.
“One home game, I got to meet Charlie Davies and Pontius while tailgating in the parking lot,” Ben remembered.
And even though his team isn’t having the season he’d hoped for, Ben is still optimistic about 2013.
“I think, even though we aren't doing that well, this year is great for finding a working line up and to get the players used to playing with each other,” Ben said. “It's also fun to see some exciting younger players have an impact more recently.”
For Ben, it’s pretty simple. Soccer is his favorite sport, and D.C. United is his favorite team. So, coming out to RFK to support his team game after game is a no-brainer, no matter the outcome.
When asked what his favorite part of coming to RFK is, he responded, “Getting to see my favorite team in person and so close. I love to see the players at the end of the game, win or lose, they are great about meeting the fans.”
On Saturday night, Ben and his father had the chance to meet Pontius again before watching warm-ups on field level. He also took the first penalty kick post-match and buried it in the back of the net.
D.C. United appreciates the support of all of its fans and is thankful for the dedication from its Season Ticket Holders. Thank you, Ben, for your continued support of the Black-and-Red and we hope to see you at D.C. United games for years to come! Vamos United.
