ALLENTOWN, Pa. — The Lehigh Valley has not only one, but two Super Bowl champions.
610, represent!
Allentown will hold an honorary celebration for Philadelphia Eagle running back Saquon Barkley at PPL Center at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 9.
Fresh off a record-shattering season and Super Bowl victory, Barkley will return to the area for the special event, offering fans the opportunity to see him in person while supporting a charitable cause.
“Saquon embodies the qualities that make Allentown the heart of the Lehigh Valley: dedication, resilience, kindness and commitment to the community.”Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk
“We are thrilled to celebrate Saquon Barkley, a local champion, at this special event,” Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk said.
“Saquon embodies the qualities that make Allentown the heart of the Lehigh Valley: dedication, resilience, kindness and commitment to the community.”
Tickets for the celebration, at $1.50, are available on the PPL Center website.
Fifty percent of sales proceeds will go to the Michael Ann & Saquon Barkley Hope Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering underserved youth through education, mentorship, and community support.
Free general parking will be available for attendees.
'An honor'
The event will feature performances by the Whitehall High School cheerleaders and marching band, celebrating Barkley’s connection to the Lehigh Valley.
“As the mayor of Whitehall, it will be an honor to acknowledge Saquon’s accomplishments on behalf of the people of Whitehall Township.”Whitehall Mayor Joe Marx
“As the mayor of Whitehall, it will be an honor to acknowledge Saquon’s accomplishments on behalf of the people of Whitehall Township,” Whitehall Mayor Joe Marx said.
Attendees also will get a complimentary commemorative keepsake, available while supplies last.
Barkley’s journey from the Bronx to the NFL is a testament to his perseverance. He moved to Bethlehem in 2001, then to Allentown and finally settled in Coplay in 2005.
A standout athlete at Whitehall High School, Barkley excelled in football, basketball and track, and remains committed to giving back to the community that shaped him.
Through his foundation, he supports local student-athletes, providing mentorship and opportunities for success both on and off the field.
The event is sponsored by the City of Allentown, Whitehall Township, PPL Center, LOUD Radio PA, Love’s Restaurant & Lounge, and Alloy5 Architecture.
