NFL teams, tennis players assist in tsunami relief efforts

NFL teams joined Venus Williams, Maria Sharapova and other sports figures around the world in assisting the disaster relief mission for the tsunami-earthquake catastrophe with a death toll that is expected to reach 150,000.

The Baltimore Ravens collected $51,475 from fans at their game against the visiting Miami Dolphins on Sunday, with the team adding another $25,000.

Volunteers also accepted donations at Sunday’s game in Seattle between the Seahawks and Atlanta Falcons. The New York Giants planned to collect money before their game Sunday night against Dallas.

In Chiang Mai, Thailand, Wimbledon champion Sharapova beat Williams in an exhibition match.

After the match the players auctioned their rackets for about $2,500 each.