MILLBURN, NJ: The Callum Cup is back and as popular as ever! This annual intra-club charity match is the marquee event of the Millburn FC soccer calendar. The charity game is played in honor of Callum Murphy, the son of Andrew Murphy, one of the club’s goalkeepers. Callum’s family and friends, together with a corporate sponsorship from Shionogi, a company currently researching Fragile X, and generous matching opportunities from the Mazzola Frado family, as well as the Kellogg and Gale families, succeeded in raising over $19,400 for FRAXA, marking another milestone in the ongoing journey of the Callum Cup. After nine years, the Callum Cup matches have raised around $148,000 for Fragile X research.
Callum Murphy was diagnosed with Fragile X when he was 2. Now a senior at Bridgewater-Raritan High School in Bridgewater, NJ, Callum is an extremely cool, laid-back young man who enjoys his iPad and loves taking trips to visit chickens all over the Garden State.
Fragile X syndrome is a genetic condition that causes a range of developmental problems, such as intellectual disabilities and cognitive impairments. Usually, males are more severely affected by the condition than females.
This year’s match, now an established fall event, had so many attendees (close to 50 players) that the usual one match turned into two matches. A great time was had by all, and everyone got into the holiday spirit thanks to a special appearance from this year’s surprise guest and referee, Santa Claus.
The custom-made shirts for the past four Callum Cups were created by the great folks at Spectrum Designs on Long Island, NY. The company does stellar work and employs very talented individuals on the autism spectrum.
The post-match celebrations continued at one of Maplewood’s friendliest Irish bars, St James’s Gate Publick House. “The Gate” is the home of the Callum Cup, which can be seen on display behind the bar year-round.
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Since 2007, Andrew Murphy and his wife, Amanda, have been passionately involved in the world of Fragile X, a journey that started with a personal connection and grew into a broader commitment to the cause. Their quest for knowledge and understanding has been a cornerstone of their involvement. Firmly believing in the power of research as the key to unlocking progress in Fragile X, they are dedicated to supporting FRAXA's mission. Through continuous learning and advocacy, Andrew and Amanda are devoted to making a difference in the Fragile X community.