When the Vikings face the Seahawks in Seattle Sunday, they will be representing causes close to their hearts.
In honor of the NFL’s annual My Cause My Cleats initiative, players will don custom-painted cleats that recently were unveiled to the athletes. The footwear’s individual designs will signify charities and nonprofits players selected to raise awareness and support for.
Vikings coaches and football staff members also are participating in the initiative.
Among the organizations represented this season are some of the players’ personal foundations or charities: Thielen Foundation, founded by Adam and his family to support youth development and mental health; the Van Ginkel Impact Foundation, launched by Andrew and Samantha Van Ginkel in response to devastating flooding in their hometown of Rock Valley, Iowa; and the Jonathan Greenard Foundation, among others.
Other players and individuals are again shining light on organizations which have personally impacted them or serve a cause they are passionate about.