As part of a comprehensive effort to reach out to and connect with diverse communities in the Twin Cities, Minnesota United has formed a multi-year partnership with the Lao Family Foundation, one of the country’s oldest Hmong nonprofit organizations.
The foundation’s signature event is the Annual Hmong International Freedom Festival, now in its 37th year and happening on Saturday, July 1 and Sunday July 2. MNUFC will be the lead sponsor of the festival and will help to facilitate the event’s soccer tournament, including an appearance by MNUFC players, who will host a trick shot competition and meet with fans and players. The winning teams in the tournament will receive free tickets to Minnesota United’s home match against the Columbus Crew on Tuesday, July 4, where the club will honor the Hmong community.
“As an organization, Minnesota United is committed to welcoming and celebrating diverse cultures and populations,” said MNUFC President Nick Rogers. “One of our core principles is inclusiveness, and through this partnership with the Lao Family Foundation, we hope to connect with the Twin Cities’ vibrant Hmong community and bring them together with all the different communities that find a home in the world’s game.”
The July 4 match is Minnesota United’s Salute to Freedom celebration and the team will honor the top men’s, women’s and youth Hmong teams from the International Freedom Festival on the pitch before the match, host a Hmong All-Star exhibition match on the pitch at TCF Bank Stadium following the match against Columbus and recognize our country’s veterans.
"This is a great opportunity for our young soccer players to see the real professional players in action,” said Dr. Chai Lee, Sports Coordinator of 37th annual Hmong Freedom Festival. “This partnership is a great connection that will allow our young players to be a part of a professional team. What a wonderful opportunity!"
Minnesota United takes on the Portland Timbers on Wednesday, June 21 at 7:00 p.m. at TCF Bank Stadium. The 5-Match Flex Plan provides fans the chance to pick the matches they’re most interested in for the rest of Minnesota United’s inaugural MLS season. Come see what all the buzz is about. 5-Match Flex Plan and other special ticket packages are available now at MNUFC.COM or by calling 763.4SOCCER.
