Springfield, Va. – September 11, 2026 -- Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Sports, Uber, and the Capital Invitational will launch a joint safety and prevention campaign on December 10 at The St. James in Springfield, Virginia, targeting impaired driving, underage substance use, and mental wellness among student-athletes and families.
Three organizations align around a single-day activation at a nationally ranked showcase
The initiative centers on the Capital Invitational, a girls' scholastic basketball showcase now entering its sixth year at The St. James, a 500,000-square-foot sports and wellness facility that draws more than 4 million annual visitors. The event attracts nationally ranked teams and elite players competing for recruiting exposure.
MADD Sports positions athletics as a prevention channel for young audiences
Stacey D. Stewart, Chief Executive Officer of MADD, said the initiative uses athletic platforms to reach young people at decision-making moments, urging attendees to plan ahead and avoid impaired driving. MADD Sports messaging at the event will cover impaired driving prevention, underage drinking prevention, mental wellness, and personal accountability.
Uber ties safe-transportation messaging directly to the event's audience
Kristin Smith, Head of Road Safety Policy at Uber, said the company's participation supports encouraging fans, families, and athletes toward responsible transportation choices around the showcase.
The St. James frames the partnership as extending its event beyond competition
Afiba Fairnot, Director of Sports Events at The St. James and Capital Invitational promoter, said the collaboration with MADD Sports and Uber elevates safety messaging alongside the on-court competition for athletes, coaches, and families attending the December 10 event.
The Capital Invitational will take place on Thursday, December 10, 2026, at The St. James, located at 6805 Industrial Road, Springfield, VA 22151.