Cultural Liaisons
Fredy Padilla
Latino Cultural Liaison
Fredy Padilla is a first-generation Latino American who was born in Guatemala and came to the United States when he was 11. He graduated from Humboldt High School on the west side of St. Paul, then joined the United States Marine Corps. As a veteran, he attended North Hennepin Community College and graduated with his Associate’s Degree.
Born with a soccer ball at his feet, Fredy got the opportunity to play soccer at a high level in Wisconsin with professional indoor team the Milwaukee Wave during the 2008–09 season. When he returned to Minnesota, he was blessed to work as a radio host/program director at La Picosa, a local tropical radio station serving the Latino community. Through La Picosa, he connected with Minnesota United, where he is now the Cultural Liaison for the Latino community.
Why Minnesota United?
Fredy joined Minnesota United for the love of the game and for the opportunity to help his community. This role gives him the chance to interact face-to-face with the Latino community and let them know personally about the many great opportunities to participate in and become part of Minnesota United. His goal is not just selling tickets but connecting the community to the team and a new era of soccer in Minnesota.
Peter Chang
Hmong Cultural Liaison
Peter was born and raised in the heart of St. Paul by immigrant and refugee Hmong parents. He is a graduate of Harding High School and completed his Bachelor's Degree at Full Sail University majoring in Entertainment Business.
Why Minnesota United?
Peter works for Minnesota United to add to the excitement and growth of soccer in Minnesota. He grew up playing soccer, including attending Minnesota Thunder camps where he got to see Minnesota pros including Tony Sanneh, Manny Lagos and Amos Magee up close. Those experiences still inspire and excite him today. Peter is thrilled to be the bridge between the Hmong/Southeast Asian community and MNUFC as they work to build winning communities together through engagement, partnerships, education and respect and love for soccer.
Ali Abdirahman
African Cultural Liaison
Ali Abdirahman is from Somalia and grew up in West Saint Paul. He attended Humboldt High School and Saint Paul College and has been playing soccer since he was 7 years old. Following a serious injury that ended his career with the Minnesota Thunder, he moved to Africa to start his own business helping the Somali people by importing affordable used cars to Somalia. He traveled all around East and North Africa studying.
Why Minnesota United?
Ali started working for Minnesota United FC to help African communities connect with each other. The one thing Africans love more than their country is football!
