Former Charlotte 49ers men’s soccer all-America goalkeeper and 13-year MLS veteran Jon Busch is spearheading his fourth annual SAVES for SEALs campaign.
Busch, now in his fifth year with the MLS San Jose Earthquakes, started the SAVES for SEALs program four years ago with all proceeds going to the Navy SEAL Foundation to take care of families of the fallen.
The starting goalkeeper for the Earthquakes donates $50 per save during the season, a total that the Earthquakes match. After the Earthquakes June 28 Military Appreciation game, two pairs of specially made SEAL goalkeeper gloves and cleats will auctioned. In addition, SAVES for SEALs has unveiled a fan page that accepts donations from the general public. Last year, the program raised $18,000, and the goal for 2014 is $25,000.
“I have been a professional athlete for 18 years because of these great warriors,” Busch said. “This is my little way to say thank you to them and their families for the sacrifices they make.”
Busch played for the Charlotte 49ers from 1994-96. In 1996, he was named first-team NSCAA all-America and led the 49ers to their first-ever NCAA College Cup appearance. After playing professionally in the A League for five seasons, he made his MLS debut in 2002. He has had a 13-year MLS playing career that has included a 2008 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Award while playing with the Chicago Fire. His MLS career began with the Columbus Crew for five years and included a three-year stint with the Fire before joining the Earthquakes in 2010.