From an hourly cleaner to turf coordinator, Dwayne Briscoe’s career with the Philadelphia Union and Talen Energy Stadium has grown his love for the team and the sport.
“This company is a very good company,” said Briscoe. “You can grow in this company if you want to. There are good people here that will help you move up.”
Briscoe, a husband and father of four, started his career as an hourly cleaner when the stadium opened in 2010. Shortly after, he became a cleaning supervisor but due to budget cuts, was let go from his responsibilities in January 2015.
“When the budget changes were going on, they [Talen Energy Stadium management] reeled me in and told me I would be working for security until something else came through,” said Briscoe. “I just broke down in tears and I thanked them.”
Since May 2015, Briscoe has assumed responsibilities as turf coordinator. Along with his boss, head groundskeeper John Torres, and two part-time employees, Briscoe is responsible for maintaining the appearance of the Talen Energy Stadium field, the Union training fields and the field equipment.
“Since day one of knowing Dwayne, over five years ago, he's always carried an energetic spirit that can liven any mood,” said Torres. “Everyday he brings a positive attitude and the greatest desire to learn.”
“Working with John is a blessing,” said Briscoe. “He is funny, a hard worker and he is a good teacher. He breaks everything down.
“Without him, I do not know where I would be.”
Briscoe’s relationship with the Philadelphia Union and Talen Energy Stadium extends beyond that of coworkers.
“When my Mom passed, the whole team came together and gave me some gifts,” said Briscoe. “They did the same when my brother was murdered. We are like one big family here.”
Briscoe has introduced his family at home to the Union and his children have grown up with the game.
“They love coming here. One of my sons had a project for school about what I do, so I brought him here and gave him a tour of stadium and he met some of the players.”
Briscoe, who was living with his sister when he first started working at Talen Energy Stadium, has now been able to move his family to a new house in a better neighborhood.
“I could be stressed out, but when I come to work I am in a different zone. I am laughing all day. I love it here. It makes me feel really good when I come in to work, every single day.”
