More than 23,000 VetTixers around the Atlanta area vied for the chance to attend Super Bowl LIII – among those, U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Ryan Green and U.S. Army veteran Brad Overton were the lucky winners.
Green, a diehard Falcons fan (who had lofty dreams of seeing his team avenged from their 2017 face-off with the Patriots), entered the lottery on a whim, sure he would never be the lucky winner.
“When I found out about the lottery, I immediately signed on, wagered all 660 coins and really kind of just put it in the back of my mind,” Green said. “I never for one second thought I would win. But then I got the notice I had been selected – I ran to get my wallet, signed on and saw the countdown ticking – my heart began racing as I fumbled for my credit card to pay the processing fee. Afterwards, I thought that maybe this a mistake, and I would receive some lengthy email explaining the situation. But nope – I had won and was going to Super Bowl LIII.”
Overton was going on a casual walk with his dog when he discovered he had won the big tickets vai the lottery, which were donated just two days before the game and included three days lodging, access to the field and a pregame party.
“I entered all 623 points I had, which I’ve accumulated over about three years,” Overton said “But I was completely shocked when I received the email informing me I was selected, since I had tried the same tactic last time. I was out walking my dogs, and my neighbors must have thought I walked into a swarm of bees the way I was jumping around!”
But not only did Overton score tickets, he was treated to a true Vet Tix VIP experience, due to the generosity of an anonymous donor.
“The pregame party was incredible – food, drinks, celebrity performances and even football legends making appearances. Once in the stadium, our seats were right on the 30-yard line with a great view of all the action,” Overton said.
Despite it being the lowest scoring Super Bowl in history, both winners described the game as energizing and unforgettable and called the opportunity to attend a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“Getting the chance to experience my first Super Bowl with one of my best friends and fellow vet was something I will never forget,” Green said. “I am truly grateful to Vet Tix for all that you do for veterans.”
