Links to related stories: SNY, SNY update, MLB, Fox News, CBS Sports, Sports Illustrated, TMZ, Barstool Sports, NESN, USA Today, 12UP, Associated Press, Yahoo!, NY Post
On August 30th, Lucia Footwear Co. was contacted with the project of a lifetime... to create custom cleats for the entire thirty-nine man roster of the New York Mets. Growing up a Mets' fan, the response was a no-brainer. Even more than the fan aspect, or even business aspect, Anthony was being asked to come up with a design that would help to represent and honor the First Responders from the tragic events of September 11th, 2001. Being a New Yorker his whole life, this was a project that hit close to home for Ant and his family. So being asked to take on such a task was truly incredible.
With only eleven days until the eighteenth anniversary of the terror attacks that changed the world, Anthony knew it would be a challenge. As the FedEx man questioned the contents of the large boxes he was carrying to my front door day after day, it was a struggle to not be able to explain. Wanting to keep the project as low-key as possible until the debut of the cleats on-field, it is what had to be done.
The mastermind behind the entire project, was none other than rookie sensation, Home Run Derby Champion, MLB All-Time Rookie Home Run Leader, and expected NL Rookie of the Year, Peter Alonso.
Having worked with Pete for his special Van Halen and Polar Bear-inspired cleats for the HR Derby and ASG, the communication and process was flawless. Thanks to the help of Pete, a specific representative, Anthony's mother, and his friend Jon and his dad, the project was started and completed within just five days.
From desk to dugout, these thirty-nine cleats were each painted and laced with meticulous attention to detail to ensure they fulfilled the purpose as much as possible. This gesture by Pete to supply his team with these cleats, and even more-so to show such a selfless and humbling level of honor to the late and surviving First Responders, was truly incredible and touching. As honored as Anthony was to be trusted with such a project, Pete was honored tenfold with the opportunity and ability to display his love and respect for his new home of New York.
From the city of New York, the entire baseball community, and all of the First Responders' Units:
Thank you, Pete.