EAGAN, Minn. – Harrison Smith will be pinch-hitting next month for a friend and great cause.
The Vikings safety is stepping in to host the Thielen Foundation Charity Softball Game May 31 at CHS Field. Due to Adam Thielen's recent signing with the Carolina Panthers, the former Viking is unable to attend his event in-person.
"Although I won't be able to play in the softball game this year, I am so grateful to see my friend and former teammate, Harrison Smith, taking on the role of host," Thielen said. "I know he will do an amazing job."
Thielen Foundation will donate proceeds from the game to Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities, an organization Smith has consistently supported 11-plus seasons in Minnesota.
Similar to last year’s matchup, the game will pit Vikings offensive players against the team's defensive players.
A walk-off homer by K.J. Osborn lifted the offense to victory last summer, but Smith is looking forward to a rematch and hopes to help the defense answer back.
"I had a great time last year, and I'm looking forward to hosting the game and having a blast with my teammates to help support Big Brothers Big Sisters," said Smith.
Thielen and Smith encourage fans to come out for the event, which offers a unique opportunity to see some of your favorite Vikings up close and personal in a fun, informal setting. Tickets for the Thielen Foundation Charity Softball game range from $5 to $50 and are available for purchase here.
Gates will open at 4:30 p.m. (CT), with a home run derby slated for 6 p.m. and the softball game itself for 7 p.m. The evening also will include in-game giveaways, a silent auction and raffle.
Founded in 2018 by Adam and his wife Caitlin, Thielen Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that aims to create programs to equip and empower youth to reach their full potential in life.
