The John R. Elliott HERO Campaign is promoting designated driving at Rutgers and Philadelphia Eagles home football games this season. Beginning with the Rutgers home opener against Norfolk State on September 5th, HERO Campaign staffers and student athlete volunteers asked Rutgers fans to sign the HERO Pledge, promising to be non-drinking designated drivers for their friends and family.

It’s all part of the HERO Campaign’s 15th anniversary 100,000 HEROES Challenge at stadiums and racetracks from Massachusetts to Kentucky, including the Patriot’s Gillette Stadium and the iconic Churchill Downs Racetrack in Louisville.

On September 5th, Rutgers students and volunteers signed up almost 300 fans who took the HERO Pledge. Rutgers fans can take the pledge at the HERO tent near the main entrance during tailgate festivities prior to the game and receive a voucher for a free soft drink at concession stands inside the stadium. They will also be eligible to win pre-game sideline passes at a future home game.

“We’re proud to be partnering with the HERO Campaign and promoting the importance of having a designated driver and keeping our fans safe,” said Geoff Brown, director of marketing for the Rutgers Athletics Department. He noted that since joining the Big Ten Conference, Rutgers has experienced increased attendance for football and its other sports.

The HERO Campaign staff also will be signing up Eagles fans at the HERO tent during CBS Radio tailgate broadcast at the Wells Fargo Center prior to each home game, starting with the Dallas game on September 20th.

By Pete Brophy  |  September 10, 2015