Philadelphia Union and Independence Blue Cross (IBX), today announced a multiyear renewal of their successful decade-long partnership. Notably, under the renewal, IBX becomes the first official sleeve-patch partner for the Union.
IBX first became a partner during the Union’s second season in 2011, and is also a proud partner of the Eagles, 76ers, Phillies, and Flyers.
IBX will have its logo visible on the right sleeve of the Union’s primary and secondary jerseys, as well as any specialty jerseys that are worn by the players during league games. Additionally, the IBX logo will be featured on the first team’s on-field warm up shirts, club polo shirts, stadium jackets, rain jackets, and additional team-issued gear.
“Independence Blue Cross is a fundamental cornerstone in Philadelphia, and a hallmark partner since the club’s early days,” said Tim McDermott, President, Philadelphia Union. “Our shared values of prioritizing community well-being while providing fun, memorable experiences such as our Philadelphia Union’s U on Tour, is what makes this partnership so rewarding. We look forward to more years of creating memories together, now both on and off the field.”
“Independence Blue Cross is thrilled to renew our successful, longstanding partnership with the Philadelphia Union. As the region’s hometown health insurer for more than 85 years, we are synonymous with Philadelphia and its sports franchises. Independence is proud to support the Union and the shared experiences that bring our community together,” said Gregory E. Deavens, President and CEO of Independence Blue Cross. “Like the team’s faithful fan base, we look forward to many successful years ahead for the Union.”
Along with the sleeve patch, fans will see the IBX brand in many new places:
- The northeast corner entry gate to Subaru Park will be named the Independence Blue Cross Gate
- The Union’s first team’s training center will be renamed the Independence Blue Cross Training Center
- IBX will be the presenting partner of the indoor turf field that will be located within the new fieldhouse of the WSFS Bank Sportsplex
- IBX will be presenting partner of “Union Insider,” the weekly show airing on PHL17.
Additionally, as part of their commitment to the fan experience, Independence Blue Cross will offer its members a 20 percent discounted ticket link for one match a month while availability lasts.
IBX will continue to be the presenting partner of Union digital promotions, including Man of the Match, Player of the Month, Player of the Year, and Achievement Unlocked content. On home match days, IBX will be the presenting partner of “Union vs. Union,” a pre-match videoboard feature, and will also have branding that is featured on the goal line field board, field level and upper LED boards. IBX will also be the presenting partner of U Thank U night, the club’s annual fan appreciation match, and will take part in a co-branded giveaway when the Union take on FC Cincinnati in their last game of the regular season on October 19th.
