The Philadelphia Union took part in the first annual Philadelphia Sports Initiative event on June 17th, which was a historic unification of all six professional sports teams in Philadelphia working together towards a common cause. The Union, 76ers, Eagles, Flyers, Phillies, and Wings joined forces at Citizens Bank Park to introduce young females from the Delaware Valley to their sports and provide them with information about how to stay involved in their community.
Hundreds of young athletes flooded the stadium, participating in an exciting rotation of soccer, basketball, lacrosse, baseball, football, and hockey around the ballpark. The girls had a chance to learn each sport from both current professional players and dedicated members of each local team through drills, games, and other activities.
“So exciting to provide an opportunity to these young girls to learn and play. All the girls were open to learning and appreciative of the day. The smiles on their faces said it all. It was great for all the Philly sports teams to come together and put on such a great event,” Philadelphia Union Foundation Director of Charitable Programs and Operations, Alyssa Radu.
“Hopefully we empowered them to want to continue playing or watch the beautiful game. One of our signature programs is developing a club right at home in Chester at no cost to the participants. We will look to build on this event and use it as a springboard for the girls in this community to come join our club.”
The Philadelphia Union brought a bus packed with grade school students from Chester Charter Scholars Academy to take part in the South Philadelphia fun. Michelle Freeman, the Climate Manager at CCS, watched as her students lit up with joy while taking part in sports that many had never played before.
“I saw the biggest smile when the girls were practicing lacrosse because they've never seen it. I think just opening them up and giving them a new experience to see things that they have never seen before is really awesome. And since the Union has come to Chester, the kids are definitely more open to soccer too. We even went to a Union game a couple weeks ago, and it was really cool. The girls really enjoyed it,” Freeman said.
“They were actually teasing the boys this morning as we got on the bus and left them, so it's a great opportunity for them and now they are seeing that girls can do the same sports and boys can so they're happy.”
The Union station featured an inflatable pitch where girls participated in a mini-match, a massive soccer darts competition, and exciting skill training. While cooling off in front of giant misting fans after hours of play, Chester girls Samya Dennis and Kayla Lewis reflected on their day, recounting the best moments.
“My favorite part is that we get to try out all the sports that boys usually do,” Dennis said, before Lewis chimed in. “It’s a good experience for girls to be empowered by sports,” Lewis said.
To find out how to get involved in the Union's upcoming Chester program, click here!
