Media, Diplomat & Political Players Compete At Kastles Charity Classic; ‘Stars’ and ‘Stripes’ Net $15,000!

SOUTHWEST -- Since it was first founded in 2008, the Washington Kastles have contributed more than $600,000 in cash donations, tickets, and sports equipment to over 100 local charities.

D.C. United head coach Ben Olsen (Photo: Washington Kastles).
And the World TeamTennis champion team increased its community outreach efforts still more on Tuesday evening, with the Kastles’ 2012 Charity Classic tennis match raising $15,000 for Share Our Strength, D.C. Public Education Fund, and the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors.

The ‘Stripes’ (Photo: Washington Kastles).
Competing during yesterday’s game were two teams of approximately 12 players each: the ‘Stars’ and the ‘Stripes’ (get it?). A refreshing bipartisan mixture of both Republican and Democratic members of Congress, diplomats, members of the Obama administration, well-know media personalities, and professional Kastles players served as the foundation for both.

NFL Hall of Famer Darrell Green (Photo: Washington Kastles).
We spotted everyone from Fox News Channel personality Bret Baier to D.C. United head coach Ben Olsen to Pro Football Hall of Famer Darrell Green to Congressman Steven C. LaTourette (R-OH) to former ABC News senior political correspondent Jonathan Karl on the smoldering courts at Kastles Stadium at the Wharf.

St. Louis Rams linebacker Rocky McIntosh (Photo: Washington Kastles).
“A founding principle of our franchise was to find meaningful ways to give back to our community and create memorable, fun activities that bring everyone together,” said Kastles’ owner Mark Ein. “Having Washington luminaries competing together as a team will be a treat for all in attendance and a great way to raise money for three important causes.”

Director of the National Economic Council Gene Sperling (Photo: Washington Kastles)

(Photo: Washington Kastles)
The five hundred some strong crowd cheering in the stands surely agreed.