Hopkinton Field Hockey Honors Abbie Benford with Keep Smilin’ 4 Abbie Game

The annual Keep Smilin’ 4 Abbie Game holds a deep significance for the Hopkinton High School Field Hockey team, as it honors the life of former player Abbie Benford. Abbie tragically passed away just before her 16th birthday in 2014 due to anaphylaxis. In her memory, Abbie’s parents, Stephen and Amy Benford, founded the KeepSmilin’4Abbie Foundation, which is dedicated to raising awareness, promoting research, and advocating for better prevention and management of anaphylaxis.

The foundation has partnered with Harvard University’s Wyss Institute to advance research that detects early signs of anaphylaxis, enabling timely interventions. Each year, Hopkinton Field Hockey hosts this special game to support the foundation and raise awareness about the dangers of anaphylaxis.

Though none of the current players or coaches had the opportunity to know Abbie, they are committed to continuing this important tradition. During the game, the team sells KeepSmilin’4Abbie gear, food, and drinks, with all proceeds going directly to the foundation. Posters about the foundation’s mission are displayed for fans, and the field is adorned in Abbie’s favorite colors—purple and green. The players and coaching staff further honor her by wearing special Abbie t-shirts during warm-ups and purple bows during the game.

This event not only supports a meaningful cause but also continues Abbie’s legacy of bringing awareness and hope to those affected by anaphylaxis.

For more information about the foundation, visit Keep Smilin’ 4 Abbie