Saturday’s match at Subaru Park is Military Appreciation Night presented by Primepoint, and all week long, the Philadelphia Union thanked and celebrated veterans and their families through a schedule of exciting events.
Some of those special families are about to get a bit bigger. On Friday morning, the team invited a group of expecting mothers, their significant others, and children involved in local USOs to take part in what they believed would be a tour of the stadium and an exclusive opportunity to watch the Boys in Blue prepare for their weekend match against New York City FC.
Instead, upon arrival, they were greeted with quite the surprise – waiting in the Tunnel Club was a Union pregnancy shower, complete with new team gear, a basket of baby gifts, and of course, a brunch spread.
“This is just something small that we are able to do to give back to people that gave so much to us. Events like this are so meaningful and impactful because we get to see the smiling faces of the families that we’re interacting with. I know that the Philadelphia Union family is growing as we’re making these lifelong connections,” said Director of Community Relations, Allie Gentile.
Primepoint’s Chief Executive Officer Al Bothwell and Business Solutions Manager Christine Minnium were in attendance as well, taking part in the festivities.
“Primepoint is excited to be the title sponsor of this week's game against NYCFC which is a special night to honor our armed forces. Today's baby shower for five expecting military families made the experience even more special by showing our appreciation and recognizing the sacrifices that family members of military personnel make every day to keep our nation safe and secure,” Bothwell said.
The celebration didn’t slow after the meal – instead, the group was ushered into field-side seats, where they watched Head Coach Jim Curtin’s lead training. After the players concluded their on-field preparation, they ran over to the sideline, expressing well wishes to each family.
“My husband's like a little kid – it's all really very exciting,” said Hillary Martinez, a mother who is expecting her second child early in 2024. Martinez, her husband Jorge, and her daughter Jailee, came decked out in Union gear, hoping to catch a glimpse of their favorite Venezuelan midfielder who happens to share their last name.
Luck proved to be in their favor – fresh off the pitch, José Martinez chatted with them about their upcoming new addition to their crew, signing their jerseys as well.
“I can't even find the words to describe it,” said Hillary, reflecting on the day.
