The United States National Soccer Team Player's Association (USNSTPA) All-Stars for Hope weekend in early December 2003 in Las Vegas was an opportunity to raise funds and awareness for the fight against leukemia, lymphoma and blood cancers.  The USNSTPA's official charity is The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.  

The highlight of the weekend was an autograph session at the Hard Rock Hotel, where fans could get the opportunity to meet their favorite players and speak to a number of stars, including U.S. National Team forward Joe-Max Moore, Chris Armas (right), Marcelo Balboa, Josh Wolff, Jeff Cunningham, Nick Rimando and Brian McBride, Alexi Lalas, John Harkes, Eric Wynalda, Chris Henderson, Mike Burns, Thomas Dooley, Taylor Twellman, Nick Garcia, DaMarcus Beasley, Pablo Mastroeni and Ryan Suarez.

While the event was a unique way for the players to bond with their fans, it was also a chance for the community to honor the players for their charity work.

Both Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman and Nevada Governor Kenny C. Guinn had proclamations read at the event proclaiming it U.S. National Team Soccer Players Day for their work throughout the year raising money for the Society.  

The day was a treat for Nevada leukemia patients, who had a special opportunity to meet the players.  "We're fortunate to play a game, but for these kids with leukemia, it's a struggle," said Wolff, a forward for the Kansas City Wizards.  "Every day for them is a battle. They probably have more bad days than good ones so anything we can do to lift their spirits is important. It's a long fight, and hopefully, we will have an impact."

Among the children there was six-year-old Peter Shields of Henderson, NV, who was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia when he was five. You would not know Peter was sick the way he and his sister ran around the room giggling and weaving between players and fellow fans. According to his mother, Christa, Peter will continue radiation treatment until June, 2005 before he can be considered in remission. Having the chance to meet the players on Thursday simply boosted his spirits further.

"Peter's favorite sport is soccer, and before he was diagnosed, he played all the time. When he found out that he would have a chance to meet professional players, he was thrilled," Christa Shields said.

"It's not like they play in town all the time. This brings the team to us. It definitely was an added bonus for them to come here and do this for him."

The chance to meet the Leukemia patients had special meaning for the players, especially those who have children of their own.

"It gives you a great feeling to know you are impacting some kids live and giving them a positive outlook on their condition," said two-time World Cup defender Mike Burns and a father of two. "If we can give them some hope, then it is all worth while."

Learn more about the All-Stars for Hope weekend.