NEW RICHMOND, Ohio — A 10-year-old, self-described Bengals superfan got a big surprise Wednesday afternoon when he and his family sat down for dinner at his local Gold Star. River Blank got a high five and hug from Bengals mascot, “Who Dey” before the tiger revealed a sign reading “Will you go to the Big Game with me?”

Stunned, River nodded yes, ensuring he, his father and brother would be headed to Los Angeles the next day.

What You Need To Know

  • Gold Star and Pepsi surprised River and his family with a trip to Super Bowl LVI

  • River has infantile scoliosis and has spent his life in and out of surgeries

  • He expects another surgery shortly after returning from the Super Bowl

  • River has cheered on the Bengals since he was 3
  • His tickets, flight and hotel are all covered by Gold Star and Pepsi

Gold Star’s corporate office planned the surprise not long after getting four free Super Bowl tickets, as the official chili of the Cincinnati Bengals. According to CEO Roger David, the company knew they would be giving the tickets away, they just needed to find the right family. When Gold Star found out about River, the answer became clear. 

The 10 year old was diagnosed with infantile scoliosis when he was 6 months old. Ever since, he’s undergone five surgeries and spent much of his life in a series of casts. As he continues to grow, his father, Travis, said he’s looking at a rare and difficult surgery. 

“He’s got a bigger battle ahead, but honestly for all the stuff that he’s been through, this kid smiles all day long,” he said.

One of the biggest reasons for River’s smile is the Cincinnati Bengals. He’s been watching games since he was three, cheering them on with his father.

“I watch them whenever they play,” River said.

Week after week, he’s been excited to see them advance through the playoffs, and now before the biggest game team will face, the family said they’re in awe to have the chance to witness it in person.

“I don’t think it’s sunk in yet,” Travis said, as River shook his head no.

Along with free tickets, Gold Star and Pepsi teamed up to pay for flights to LA, the hotel, and transportation as well as a $1,000 VISA gift card for the family to use on the trip and tons of Bengals hats, accessories, and other game day gear. 

River also got a signed ball from Tee Higgins, his favorite player.

For River’s mom and siblings unable to join them in Los Angeles, Gold Star is supplying a Watch Party package with game day decor, snacks, chili fixings, and gift cards to cover groceries and takeout. 

River and his family will head to LA on Thursday and while he’s still finding it hard to believe, the boy already knows what he’s most looking forward to. 

“Seeing the players,” he said. ‘It’s just better than watching them on TV.”

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