I was a 4 for 4 Philadelphia sports fan (Eagles, Phillies, Flyers, Sixers) and Kyle… well, he was totally random. Despite having lived in Pennsylvania his whole life, he liked the Dolphins, SF Giants, Flames, and Timberwolves. While Kyle was an AC Milan fan, had played soccer and was pretty into it, I was more casual (but I did play as a kid a bit, and my dad played semi-pro). After winning Philadelphia Union tickets in an auction, we finally went to a game in 2019 at what was at the time Talen Energy Stadium. It was “90s Night” and the Union were playing Atlanta. We had such a good time (and the Union won 3-1) that we decided to go to more games, including being at the home playoff game against the New York Red Bulls, which was won in thrilling fashion. After the pandemic subsided, we got season tickets in 2021 and Sons of Ben memberships. It has become so much more than being a fan, however.

Along the way, we have met so many people and formed so many friendships. It really is a community that we wish to give quality news coverage to and highlight the stories that make Philadelphia a fantastic sports city. After we traveled to Los Angeles in 2022 for the MLS Cup Final vs. LAFC, we decided (upon suggestion of Union fans) to start a podcast that goes beyond just the game analysis, but shares the whole experience—the community. With Kyle’s communications background, he also wanted to get back into writing. We wanted to cover all facets of the game and help bring the larger Philadelphia market and beyond into what it is like to follow the Union.

Since we launched the podcast, we have had the pleasure of speaking to so many people from the Union/soccer community, including players and coaches, media, professionals involved with sports, and soccer supporters. We have made lasting friendships and connected with so many. Along the way, we evolved from what began as two fans podcasting into a media outlet that wants to bring the best coverage of the Union, Union II, and the Union Academy to the people. We hope you enjoy our content as we promote what makes the Philadelphia Union and its community one of a kind.

-Jillian Almoney

Jillian is a teacher with a Masters degree in education, a swim coach, and a lifelong Lancaster resident who was brought up in everything Philly sports. PS- she goes by “Jillian” and only very select people call her “Jill.” In case you assumed.

Kyle is a swim coach and community health director, and a native of York, PA. He has a degree in communications and is a member of North American Soccer Reporters.

Our first game

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