Tag Archive for: Philadelphia Union

Curtin and Union Remain Unbeaten….IPZ Partners with NY Titans….Pop Singer Capri signs with IPZ….IPZ signs Deuce Jones for NIL Purposes

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Curtin and Union Remain Unbeaten in MLS Action

Jim Curtin, and the Philadelphia Union came up big this past weekend as the Union battled back for a 2-1 road win at Nashville SC to extend its unbeaten start in MLS play.  

Curtin credited his players for fighting to the final whistle of every match and finding ways to win.  

“My players have a ton of heart,” Curtin said. “They’re never out of a game. They’ll play to the final whistle. From minute 1 to minute 90, anything can happen, and we stick with things and we fight. Is it always perfect? No. But at the same time, I think we put in the work for our fans, for the Philadelphia Union badge, for the city and these guys give everything. That commitment is kind of ingrained in our roster.”  

The Philadelphia Union, look to extend their unbeaten streak to 7 games, as their Eastern Conference road trip continues with a matchup with Atlanta United FC on Sunday, April 14th. Kickoff is set for 2:30PM ET with the action on FOX and free on Apple TV.  

IPZ Partner with NY Titans

The New York Titans, a fast-growing men’s and youth developmental soccer club in Brooklyn, NY, has signed with IPZ for marketing and sponsorship opportunities.

The Titans men’s team competes in the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL), the largest pro-development league in North America. The club also fields several youth teams in different age groups.

The club was founded during the Covid pandemic by Ukrainian actress Olga Lezhneva, who moved to Brooklyn in 2014.

You can learn more about the club here: NY Titans, and follow them on Instagram here: NY Titans FC Instagram

Pop Singer Capri signs with IPZ

Nineteen-year-old Capri Everitt, who famously sang 80 national anthems in 80 countries during a one year period when she was 11 years old, has signed with IPZ for marketing opportunities. 

The pop singer, who hails from Vancouver, Canada, recently performed at an international soccer tournament in Dallas, and has performed national anthems at many professional sporting events in North America.  

With more than 1 million followers on social media, Capri has strived to raise awareness for orphaned and abandoned children around the world. In 2019, she was cited by the Huffington Post as “one of 16 girls who changed the world.”  

You can learn more about Capri and experience her music here: Capri Everitt

IPZ signs Deuce Jones for NIL Purposes

Deuce Jones, an all-State guard with College Achieve Public Charter School in Asbury Park, NJ, has signed with IPZ for NIL opportunities.  

Jones, a Trenton, NJ native, is considered one of the top players in New Jersey and is currently ranked seventh overall in the state and has an overall 3-star rating by 247 Sports.  

Jones will begin his college career in September at La Salle University in Philadelphia. Deuce recently led College Achieve to an NJ Group 1 Title, averaging 21 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 3 steals throughout his senior campaign.  

“Deuce is a player who’s best basketball is ahead of him,” said College Achieve coach Dave Boff. “He showed tremendous growth this year and will only continue to get better as he moves on to La Salle.”  

Follow Deuce on Instagram here: Deuce Jones Instagram  

Curtin to be L.E.A.D.’s Ambassador…Dougherty Howard Shines in Return to Orlando…Big Decision for Big Cliff…Curtin Featured in Verizon Commercial

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Curtin to be L.E.A.D.’s Ambassador

Jim Curtin, the head coach of the Philadelphia Union, will be the National Sports Ambassador for L.E.A.D, Law Enforcement Against Drugs & Violence, the organization announced today.  

Curtin, a recognized leader in soccer in the United States and in youth development, will help L.E.A.D. advance its mission of teaching school age children about the dangers of drugs and violence.  

“Jim’s track record speaks for itself as both a leader and role model,” said Nick De Mauro, chief executive of L.E.A.D. “An amazing family man, Jim’s children are exactly the ages of the students we reach and his ability to both work with children and his respect for law enforcement make him the perfect person to lend support to our program. We look forward to hitting the ground running with Jim.”  

“When I learned about the L.E.A.D. program I was thrilled to lend my support,” said Curtin. “You can’t argue with the benefits of teaching young children about the dangers of drugs and violence, and I look forward to using my platform in the MLS to spread the word. Every team in our league works with young students, and we can all learn from the curriculum L.E.A.D. employs.”  

Read the entire announcement here: L.E.A.D PRESS RELEASE

Dougherty Howard Shines in Return to Orlando

Meggie Dougherty Howard, midfielder for Angel City FC, produced an outstanding performance in her return to her home state and former club Orlando Pride, as Angel City FC was able to pick up a valuable road point with a 1-1 draw.

Angel City FC controlled the game from the opening whistle, with Dougherty Howard’s incredible distribution throughout the match. Angel City FC finally broke through in the 53rd minute after Dougherty Howard drew a foul in the box resulting in a penalty kick for Angel City FC. Angel City FC converted the penalty to take a much deserved 1–0 lead.

A late Orlando goal spoiled the chance for an Angel City FC road victory, but it was a hard earned and important point on the road for Dougherty Howard and the club.

Angel City FC and Dougherty Howard are back in action this Saturday, March 30, at 3:30 PM EST, away against the Kansas City Current. That match will be available on ESPN and ESPN+.

Big Decision for Big Cliff

When, after four years at Rutgers University, Clifford “Big Cliff” Omoruyi entered college basketball’s “transfer portal,” both the accolades and concerns started appearing on social media from Scarlet Knight fans. 

The great majority wished him well and felt he deserved the opportunity. Others expressed concern about Rutgers having two big time recruits coming to the school next year, but losing its defensive standout in the middle.  

In the new world of NIL, Cliff deserves the opportunity every other college athlete has. ESPN immediately published a story saying Cliff was the 2nd most attractive player in the transfer portal:  

“2. Clifford Omoruyi, 6-11, C, Sr., Rutgers Scarlet Knights  

Among the truly elite post defenders in college basketball. Omoruyi was named to the Big Ten’s All-Defensive team after averaging 10.4 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.9 blocks for one of the best defenses in the country.”  

Dozens of schools – all major programs – have reached out about Cliff, a guy who has raised nearly $100,000 for the Salvation Army Books & Basketball program in Newark, has put together a 3.8 GPA while earning a degree in Information Technology, and been a model student and teammate on campus.  

NIL is a good thing…and great guys like Big Cliff deserve to reap its rewards. It would be better if Clifford and other F-1 Visa students had the opportunity to earn money just like other college athletes, as we have written in the past (Link) . Our only hope is that we don’t have to travel “too far” to watch our friend on a new campus next year.  

Jim Curtin Featured in Verizon: Next Level Commercial Series

The Philadelphia Union head coach first showed off his tactical insight in the Verizon: Next Level- Tactics. In the commercial, Curtin gives the fans a look into the importance of tactical preparation for a match.  

Curtin most recently was featured in Verizon: Next Level- Technology in the Game. In this segment, Curtin discusses how the Philadelphia Union use innovations in technology and sports science to try and create a competitive edge over their opponents.  

Curtin and the Philadelphia Union are coming off a strong road win against the Portland Timbers in MLS action and now begin preparation for their home match up against Minnesota United on March 30th, with kickoff set for 2:00 PM EST at Subaru Park in Chester, Pa.  

Whitney Accepts Offer….Curtin’s Union Advance in CONCACAF….Omoruyi and Olivers Tight Bond

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Kahlil Whitney Accepts Offer with Klub Skrljevo

Kahlil Whitney, who signed last week with IPZ, has accepted an offer from Klub Skrljevo (Klub Skrljevo Team Website) in the Croation Premier League, the club announced early Monday. IPZ worked with Players Group Italia to secure the offer for Kahlil.  

Whitney spent the last three seasons in the G-Leauge, appearing in 24 games for his hometown team, the Windy City Bulls as well as the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.  

“The teams at Players Group and IPZ feel this is an excellent opportunity for Kahlil to showcase his talents,” said IPZ Managing Partner Robert Zito. “Our hope is he can be a vital cog to lead Skrljevo to a great run in the playoffs.”  

Curtin’s Philadelphia Union Advance in CONCACAF Champions Cup

In a thrilling 120-minute showdown, Jim Curtin and the Philadelphia Union showcased resilience and determination, ultimately clinching victory with a dramatic 94th-minute winner by Mikael Uhre, securing a 6-5 aggregate series win over Deportivo Saprissa. Tuesday night’s Concacaf Champions Cup clash was a spectacle, featuring six goals, intense VAR reviews, and the Union enduring extra time playing down a man. Yet, echoing the spirit of their city and Curtin, the Union fought relentlessly, advancing to face one of the oldest and most prominent clubs in Mexico, C.F. Pachuca, in the next round.

Curtin, following a lackluster performance, was brief in his post-game comments, simply stating, “Survive and advance.”

Set to kick off the Round of 16 in front of their passionate home crowd, the Philadelphia Union will take the field for leg 1 of a 2 leg aggregate series at Subaru Park on Tuesday, March 5th, with kick-off scheduled for 7:00 PM EST.

The Tight Bond between Big Cliff and Muhammad Oliver

Our newsletter has been filled with numerous stories about the way Rutgers star Clifford Omoruyi has given back to the community during his college career.  

But where did Cliff learn about the right things to do?  

Check out his story, from the Salvation Army, about Cliff’s mentor and guardian – Muhammad Oliver. 

 

Dougherty Howard Begins Pre-Season…. Big Cliff Spreading the Word About Cancer Screening…. Curtin Preparing for 2024 MLS Season

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Meggie Dougherty Howard Begins Pre-Season Training with Angel City FC

Midfielder Meggie Dougherty Howard, who recently joined Angel City FC, has begun preparations for the 2024 NWSL season.  

Dougherty Howard and Angel City FC kicked-off their NWSL preseason last week at their home training ground in Thousand Oaks, CA. Angel City FC will continue their preparations in California with a series of preseason friendly matches and training sessions over the next few weeks. Angle City’s 2024 NWSL opener is set for March 16th at home against Bay FC.  

Dougherty Howard, a NWSL Shield winner last year with San Diego Wave FC, hopes to bring her winning mentality and veteran leadership to her new club Angel City FC as it looks to build off of a strong 2023 campaign.  

Big Cliff Helps Spread the Word About Cancer Screening

Cliffor Omoruyi used his Big Ten and Rutgers’ platforms to help Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and the American Cancer Society raise awareness about the importance of cancer screenings.

In four social media posts, Cliff talked about the importance of screenings during the NCAA’s “Suits & Sneakers” weekend games. In one post, Cliff put on his own suit and sneaks, saying “It’s not just the coaches who can wear suits and sneakers to spread the word.”

“We’re thrilled that Cliff is joining Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and the American Cancer Society to share the importance of cancer prevention, early detection and cancer screening,” said Dr. Eric Berman, Associate Chief Medical Officer for Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. “He has helped many important causes, like the Salvation Army’s programs in Newark, and we are glad he is part of our team. It makes sense that one of the nation’s top defenders is helping defeat cancer.”

Jim Curtin and the Philadelphia Union Continue Preparations for the 2024 MLS Season

Jim Curtin and the Philadelphia Union recently wrapped up their first phase of preseason training in Clearwater, FL with a 3-1 victory over New York City FC (MLS) in a preseason friendly.  

“The first phase of preseason has gone very well,” said Curtin, “we had three really high-level games against CR Flamengo (Brazil), Austin FC (MLS), and now NYCFC (MLS). The group continued to get better through each of our three matches and were able to build up a lot of fitness and confidence going into the next phase of pre-season.”  

After a week back in Philadelphia, the Union will return to Clearwater, FL on February 5th to wrap-up the second phase of preseason with matches scheduled against FC Cincinnati on Feb. 9th and culminating with a match against New England Revolution on Feb.14th.  

Coming off a strong 2023 campaign the Union again qualified for the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup (CCC), a tournament that includes the top 27 teams in North and Central America. Philadelphia will kick-off its 2024 season and the CCC competition with an away game against Deportivo Saprissa, in Costa Rica on February, 20th at 10:00 PM EST. MLS action for the Union will begin on February 24th at their home at Subaru Park against the Chicago Fire FC with kick-off set for 7:30 PM EST.  

Curtin & Union Clinch MLS Playoffs…Omoruyi & Rutgers Basketball Outlook…Okert Ready for MLB Postseason…Dougherty-Howard Playoff Bound

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Jim Curtin and the Philadelphia Union Clinch Sixth Consecutive Audi MLS Cup Playoff Appearance + Curtin Featured in Fashion Editorial Hypebeast

Jim Curtin and the Philadelphia Union recently clinched their sixth consecutive trip to the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs and further solidified their status as one of the best clubs in Major League Soccer. Runners up in the 2022 MLS Cup, Curtin and the Union are looking to bring home their first MLS Cup in 2023. 

Additionally, if you love sneakers, fashion, and streetwear, check out Jim’s recent feature in Hypebeast, a popular daily fashion editorial with tens of millions of followers. Jim discusses his love for the Air Jordan 1 shoe model and how he connects with his players through sneakers and fashion. 

Cliff Omoruyi’s Outlook on the Rutgers Men’s Basketball Season

Cliff Omoruyi, an All-Big Ten Team selection in 2022-23, and his Rutgers teammates kick off the 2023-2024 NCAA Basketball Season on November 6th, for an in-state battle with Ivy League Powerhouse Princeton. Omoruyi, who was recently featured in an nj.com article this past week, shared some insight into why Rutgers Basketball fans should be itching for November 6th to roll around.

“This team is going to be different,” Omoruyi explained and also added, “We’ve got a lot of guys who can attack one-on-one now, who can kick out for the three. We’ve got a lot of guys who can do that.”  

Catch Rutgers and Cliff, a recent addition to the National Collegiate Honor Society, all season long as they look to bring a Big Ten title back to New Jersey!  


Steven Okert and the Miami Marlins Clinch a Spot in the 2023 MLB Playoffs

For the fourth time in franchise history, Steven Okert and the Miami Marlins are headed to the MLB playoffs. The Marlins clinched a playoff spot with a 7-3 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates last Saturday and will now shift their focus to making a deep run into October. Okert appeared in 64 games out of the bullpen for Miami this season, posting a 4.45 ERA.  

Catch the Marlins this week as they take on last year’s NL Champion Philadelphia Phillies in a 3 game Wild Card series and try to deliver a championship to Miami! 

Meggie Dougherty-Howard and the San Diego Wave FC Clinch a Spot in the 2023 NWSL Post Season

Meggie Dougherty-Howard and San Diego Wave FC have clinched a spot in the 2023 NWSL post season. The NWSL playoffs are scheduled to kick-off on October 22nd. 

San Diego Wave FC will look to finish the season strong, with two regular season games remaining. They travel to North Carolina to face off against the North Carolina Courage on October 7th, before returning home to finish out the regular season against Racing Louisville FC on October 15th.  

Dougherty-Howard, a key contributor to the Waves’ success looks to bring San Diego Wave FC their first NWSL Championship in franchise history.  

Jim Curtin Extended; Okert and Thaiss Shine; Cliff and Rutgers visit Senegal; Stitz makes MLS Debut

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Philadelphia Union extends Coach Curtin through the 2026 season

Philadelphia Union announced Tuesday (July 11th) that the club has signed Head Coach Jim Curtin, two-time MLS Sigi Schmid Coach of the Year, to a multi-year contract extension that it guaranteed through 2026. Currently in his 10th season as head coach, he is the second longest tenured coach in the MLS and also holds the second most regular season wins with a single team at 127. 

“Jim is one of the top coaches in the league and we’re thrilled to have come to an agreement to extend his leadership with Union,” said Jay Sugarman, Principal Owner of the Philadelphia Union. He added that Curtin’s leadership is critical to the team’s success and he looks forward to watching his players and the team continue to hit new milestones under his direction. 

Jim recently finished the 2022 campaign setting numerous records with the club, including most wins (19), most goals scored (72), fewest goals conceded (26), and greatest goal differential (46). 

Steven Okert and Matt Thaiss shine during the first half of the season

Steven Okert is having a breakout season for the Miami Marlins. During the first half of the season, he has posted a career best 2.53 ERA, 0.91 WHIP and has allowed only 9 earned runs in 32 innings pitched. With already 3 wins under his belt, Okert is on pace to beat last year’s total by a wide margin.

Thrust into his first starting role after five seasons in MLB, Matt Thaiss has been a key component to the Los Angeles Angels lineup. Posting a batting average of .256, Matt also has 43 hits, 22 RBI’s and 24 runs scored.  

Both the Marlins and Angels resume play Friday as the second half of the baseball season gets underway. 

Cliff Omoruyi and Rutgers Travel to Senegal and Portugal

Last Starting on Tuesday, August 8th, Cliff Omoruyi and his Rutgers basketball teammates will go on an international tour to Senegal and Portugal. The tour, which concludes on August 19th will have Rutgers face off against local and national basketball clubs at each location.

“This foreign tour will give our team the opportunity to prepare for the challenge of the upcoming season against great international competition, as well as proving an unbelievable cultural experience of three great cities,” head coach Steve Pikiell said. 

For Cliff and other F-1 Visa athletes on the team, it will also provide an opportunity for the players to earn NIL compensation as Ambassadors for brands. United States law allows U.S. college athletes to earn NIL compensation at any time, but athletes attending U.S. colleges on F-1 visas must be “off-shore” to have the same opportunity. To understand more about this issue, please click here.




Ben Stitz makes MLS debut against NY Red Bulls



Rookie Ben Stitz, who was recently called up to FC Cincinnati’s first team on a short-term loan, made his MLS debut against the NY Red Bulls on Wednesday night. Ben’s first MLS action came as a substitute in the 73rd minute with FC Cincinnati trailing 1-0. The offensive substitutions changed the momentum of the game and FC Cincinnati was able to come back for an important 2-1 road victory, taking all 3 points back to Cincinnati. FC Cincinnati is in action again this Saturday evening at home against Nashville SC, a battle of the top two teams in the Eastern Conference.



Ben Stitz Interview, Cavan Sullivan Called Up to U-15 camp, Quinn Sullivan reports to Union & U-20 training, Cliff Omoruyi & Rutgers upset #1 Purdue

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Quinn Sullivan, Union Win Eastern Conference Championship, Cliff Omoruyi & 16 Handles To Host Fall Semester Party… Cliff Named to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award Watch List

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Alexey Oleynik To Fight In UFC Fight Night 211… Quinn Sullivan Leads USMNT U-20’s To Runner-Up Finish At Revelations Cup… Meggie Dougherty-Howard Earns Star Of The Match

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Quinn’s Big Week and Deal with Metabilia…Alexey’s 60th Win…Frank Schwindel Behind-the-Scenes…Team U.S.A. Picks Brad

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