Editor
Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Aaron Nola hosted a charity poker event earlier in May to benefit Team Red, White & Blue at Citizens Bank Ballpark. The charity raised $225,000 to benefit veterans of military service seeking to improve their physical and mental health.
“(We) help veterans get back on their feet and provide a lot of things, mentally and physically,” Nola said at the event. “They’re good people all around. We’re grateful to have an event like this.”
Nola was joined by his wife, Hunter, teammates Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber, the Phillie Phanatic, members of the front office, and MLB broadcaster Gregg Murphy, who emceed the event.
Team RWB founder Mike Erwin also played in the poker tournament. He spoke to the crowd about the importance of the charity and the impact the Nolas have had.
Whoopsboom Joined the Event
Noted poker streamer Keith Becker was on hand for the event and interviewed the winner, Al Rossi. He took home a Team RWB jacket, golf bag and a signed team helmet along with a few smaller prizes.
The event was held in the CP Rankin Club at the park alongside a silent auction. Phillies CEO John Middleton donated an Owner’s Suite experience, which drew the single largest bid. Other items included Rocky shorts autographed by Sylvester Stallone, a signed Kobe Bryant jersey and a signed Taylor Swift guitar.
Team RWB’s Work
Team RWB is a national charity that has over 250,000 members in nearly 20,000 events. One of their flagship events is the Old Glory Ultra Relay, where 12 veterans carry a flag 3,000 miles in just over two weeks from San Diego to Washington, DC.
The charity sponsors monthly missions, expeditions for veterans and partnered with Spartan Races for the 2025 season. The Nolas have generated upwards of $600,000 for Team RWB in less than three years.
Online poker in Pennsylvania is booming, as the Keystone State just officially joined MSIGA. Players in Pennsylvania will be able to play in the 30 online WSOP bracelets, competing with those from Nevada, New Jersey, and Michigan.
