Borough's Got Soul

During a three-hour stretch Saturday, the borough got Soul.

Philadelphia Soul. But in Collingswood.

From 11 a.m. until around 2 p.m., members of the Philadelphia Soul arena football team, Soul cheerleaders and team owner—Eagles football legend Ron Jaworski—delighted fans, giving autographs and taking photos.

The meet-and-greet took place at the apartment complex, where Philadelphia Soul teammates have been living since this past March.

"The players moved in (Heights of Collingswood) in March, and have been here throughout the season. They're here until the end of August," said Heights of Collingswood Director Jackie Gatta. "And today, they wanted to take time to meet with the residents and fans they see each day. Every single one of these guys, including Ron Jaworski, has just been amazing."

Faye Little, a Heights of Collingswood resident who said she passes team members regularly around the complex, agreed.

"I'm having a good time today," said Little, smiling. "I met all the players, and they're really nice people. I see them around all the time."

Saturday's festivities included a performance by Soul cheerleaders, raffle giveaways—featuring footballs, helmets and jerseys signed by Jaworski—and music, spun by DJ Brickhouse.

But for the athletes, meeting and getting to know residents they pass by each day was equally important.

"I've been living here for a few months now, and I haven't been able to have any contact with residents—besides in the elevator or the lobby," said 26-year-old Philadelphia Soul Fullback Dan Ross. "So it's nice to finally meet everyone, and show them we appreciate them. Because these are people who've been supporting us the entire season."

Making his rounds Saturday was 11-year-old Heights of Collingswood resident and Soul fan Daniel Walsh.

"I already have Ron Jaworski's autograph; my dad got it for me when I was little. I like the Philadelphia Soul, and I've been to a couple of games before," said Walsh. "I'm excited to meet the players today."

By halfway through the event, Walsh's excitement was tangible. He'd already gotten every single player to sign his football helmet.

Another youngster enjoying the meet-and-greet was 5-year-old Heights resident Che Brown.

But while Che's nervous anticipation was evident each time a Soul player reached out to shake his tiny hand, his attentions were aimed largely at another group.

The Soul cheerleaders.

For two hours straight, the 5-year-old rotated between watching their choreographed routines, and then performing his own revised versions.

"I like the dancers, because I like to dance a lot. To all the music," said Che, then deciding to add, "I live here (in the Heights of Collingswood). But I'm going to get my own house soon."

Taken with the little boy's dance skills, girls in the squad joked that Che's moves stole the show.

By the time things slowed down at 2 p.m., residents, fans, cheerleaders and teammates were laughing, joking, and well-acquainted.

It was a successful day, which Jaworski attributed to the fans.

"Our players live here, in Collingswood, and everyone in town has really opened their arms and welcomed the Soul since they moved in," said Jaworski. "The people have been great, and today was our way of showing them how much we appreciate it."