Community

Republic FC Unified Team Shows Strong in First Ever Match

On October 1, Republic FC’s Special Olympics Unified Team took the pitch for its first ever match on the pitch at Heart Health Park. Since August, the squad had prepared with weekly training sessions for its first game – an exhibition contest against its counterparts from the San Jose Earthquakes. In the end, San Jose would take the victory by a 3-1 score line.

It was a spirited night for all on the pitch – as the local rivalry between the two clubs spilled over to the Unified format. San Jose took the lead first – but it wasn’t for lack of difficulty. Sacramento’s backline and goalkeeping dispelled opportunities from the Bay Area side throughout the first half. Eventually, Sacramento broke through, with Shawn Kiehn netting the first score in Republic FC unified team history to cheers from home supporters in the stands. Republic FC first team players attended the match to show their support, with Russell Cicerone, Danny Vitiello, Shane Wiedt, Luther Archimède, and captain Rodrigo Lopez all sticking around for the action.

“There’s nothing that says inclusion more than coming together on the soccer pitch,” said Unified Team Head Coach and Republic FC Manager of Soccer Programming Filip Handl of the match. “Regardless of the result, this was a tremendous game, and we can’t wait to take the pitch again next season.”

San Jose would eventually go ahead in the second half – netting an impressive free kick score to go ahead and putting in a third just before the final whistle. But Sacramento’s Indomitable Spirit mirrored that of that first team just hours prior, as they never gave up and continued to make thigs difficult for their Bay Area foes.

Republic FC’s Unified Team now breaks for the offseason. The squad will pick back up in the springtime – when they’ll welcome new players and partners for the 2024 season – to align with the club’s USL Championship schedule. Additional contests against San Jose Earthquakes are in the cards, as well as matches against other USL-affiliated sides in the growing Unified Soccer landscape.

Special Olympics is dedicated to promoting social inclusion through shared sports training and competition experiences. Unified Sports joins people with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team. It was inspired by a simple principle: training together and playing together is a quick path to friendship and understanding.

Republic FC & Fans to Kick Off Opening Week of 2023 Postseason with Week of Community Engagement

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — As Republic FC returns to the playoffs for the 9^th time in 10 seasons, the Indomitable Club is calling on fans and community members to join in kicking off the opening week of the postseason with five days of service projects throughout the region. Beginning on Monday, October 16, a group of Republic FC staff, fans, and partners will participate in a daily volunteer opportunity leading up to the club’s Western Conference Quarterfinal match at Heart Health Park on October 21. With club employees, partners, and fans working together, the team will complete over 130 hours of community service throughout the week. This marks the second week of service coordinated by the club this year, with 150 volunteer hours completed in March to celebrate the start of Republic FC’s 10^th season.

“Giving back to the community is at the core of who we are as a club, and it is one of the biggest ways that we are able to show our appreciation for the region that has supported us for 10 seasons,” said Republic FC President and General Manager Todd Dunivant. “As we prepare for the excitement of playoff soccer at Heart Health Park, this energy and passion extend to how we engage with the community, and we’re looking forward to making a big impact in this week of service.”

The week of service will celebrate and honor the indomitable spirit of the region and the diverse community that calls Sacramento home. Any participant who volunteers alongside the club will receive two free tickets to the club’s Western Conference Quarterfinal match on October 21, as well as a team swag bag. Fans can sign up for a shift at SacRepublicFC.com/Community.

SIGN UP FOR A VOLUNTEER SHIFT TODAY – LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE

Schedule of events:

Monday, October 16 – Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services / sorting and packing food resources for local distribution
Tuesday, October 17 – Women’s Empowerment / painting
Wednesday, October 18 – Volunteers of America / hygiene kit packaging
Thursday, October 19 – Sacramento Children’s Home / yard work
Friday, October 20 – Sacramento SPCA / event setup & preparation

The week will kick off on October 16 at the Sacramento Food Bank in North Sacramento. Volunteers will spend the afternoon sorting and packaging fresh produce and non-perishable items for distribution. The food bank is the largest nonprofit provider of basic human needs in Sacramento County, distributing 2.9 million pounds of food each month and many other social services including immigration legal assistance, utilities assistance, and refugee resettlement aid.

On Tuesday, October 17 the club will support Women’s Empowerment, an organization that strives to educate and empower women who are homeless with the skills and confidence necessary to get a job, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and regain and home for themselves and their children. Volunteers will spend the morning painting and refreshing the facility.

On Wednesday, October 18 the group will team up with Volunteers of America to prepare hygiene kits for women at the Meadowview Navigation Women’s Shelter. The center opened in 2020 and provides 100 beds to unsheltered women. While operations are overseen by the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency, Volunteers of America provide the daily on-site services.

Thursday, October 19 will be at the Sacramento Children’s Home, where volunteers will help with a variety of yard work and garden maintenance. For over 150 years, the facility has been committed to helping children by providing high-quality care to the region’s most vulnerable children and families.

Animal lovers are encouraged to sign up for the final volunteer opportunity of the week at the Sacramento SPCA on Friday, October 20. In addition to a facility tour and getting to meet some of the organization’s adoptable furry friends, volunteers will help set up for the SPCA’s Annual Fall Gala & Silent Auction, which raises funds to care for the animals and people who need them most.

Sign-ups for volunteer shifts are open now at SacRepublicFC.com/Community and opportunities are open to the public. Volunteers must be at least 18 years or older, with the exception of Monday’s shift at the Sacramento Food Bank (see here for volunteer requirements). Projects may be adjusted due to inclement weather and work supplies/equipment will be provided by the club.

Earlier this year, Republic FC hosted a week of service to open the club’s 10^th season, with volunteers visiting Wellspring Women’s Center, the Ronald McDonald House, New Roots Farm, and more. The club even extended its passion for giving back beyond state lines when the club traveled to Orlando for the 2022 U.S. Open Cup Final. Ahead of the big match, Republic FC teamed up with Orlando City SC employees to revitalize and plant pollinator gardens.

Republic FC will host a first-round matchup on Saturday, October 21 at 7:00 p.m. The opponent will be determined and announced at the conclusion of the regular season on October 14. For more information on playoffs and tickets, visit SacRepublicFC.com/playoffs.

Beyond Soccer: September 2023 Community Recap

Republic FC isn’t just a soccer team; it’s a community powerhouse. Through a series of impactful events and initiatives in September, the club has continued to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to making a difference in Sacramento. From recognizing the resilience of 988 Lifeline operators with Damia Viader, to supporting a first-generation college student’s mission to improve mental health care for the Hispanic and Latino community through the El Futuro Scholarship, and even empowering individuals to achieve peak performance with G6 Performance Training, Republic FC has shown that its reach extends far beyond the soccer field.

Damia Viader and Republic FC give back to 988 Lifeline operators

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month, Republic FC made a special visit to WellSpace Health to give back to the dedicated employees that operate the 988 Suicide and Crisis Center. Along with defender Damia Viader, the club surprised operators with gifts of flowers, Republic FC gear, and tickets to an upcoming match.

El Futuro Scholarship: First-Generation College Student Wants to Impact Region’s Mental Health Care for Hispanic & Latino Community

On Noche Latina, Republic FC and the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce presented 21-year-old Missael Sanchez as the recipient of the 5^th annual El Futuro Scholarship. A first-generation college student, Sanchez is currently attending UC Davis studying Neurology, Physiology, and Behavior in a pre-med track to use as a stepping stone for medical school. Long-term, he hopes to make an impact on local mental health resources and services, especially in the Hispanic and Latino community.

Learn more about Missael >>

Hispanic Heritage Collection Giveback

Shop this year’s Hispanic Heritage Collection and give back to the community!

Designed by local artists Rosa and Antonio Sarabia, co-founders and co-directors of Azules Design Studio, this year’s merchandise collection pays homage to the nationalities of the Republic FC players of Hispanic and Latino backgrounds, while also bringing inspiration from design styles first introduced during the 1968 Summer Olympics and 1970’s World Cup – both held in Mexico.

The Pasión y Orgullo collection is available online at Shop.SacRepublicFC.com and will be available in the team store at Heart Health Park.

This year, 10% of the collection’s scarf proceeds will go to La Familia Counseling Center.

Fit x G6

Republic FC teamed up with G6 Performance on September 16 for a free, community workout to get people’s heart pumping!

“We are thrilled to continue to utilize Heart Health Park as a community hub for health and wellness,” said Republic FC Chief Revenue Officer Dustin Vicari. “Through our new partnership with G6 Performance Training, we hope to inspire fans and community members to make their health a priority, and highlight a locally-owned business that can help make that possible.”

Out of Darkness Community Walk

Every September, mental health organizations and advocates across the country unite to promote suicide prevention awareness and inspire people to learn how they can play a role in their communities in helping to save lives.

This year, Republic FC called on fans and community members to join the club for the Out of Darkness Community Walk on Saturday, September 9 at Sutter Health Park. Organized by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), this annual event is a journey of remembrance, hope, and support that brings together family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers in memory of those we’ve lost to suicide.

In addition to sponsoring a team for the event, the club pledged $1,000 to the AFSP to help fund suicide prevention research and provide evidence-based programs to local communities across the country.

Special Olympics Unified Team

Earlier this season, Republic FC and Special Olympics Northern California partnered to celebrate inclusion on the pitch, bringing together athletes from across the region on the first unified team in Sacramento soccer history. The Unified Team continued to practice regularly throughout the month, and even got a few special visits from Republic FC players Luther Archimede and Shane Wiedt.

The team took to the pitch for the first time on October 1, facing their counterparts from San Jose Earthquakes.

Childhood Cancer Awareness – Superhero Keeper Kit

Throughout September, Republic FC and UC Davis Health worked together to drive awareness and raise funds for patients and families affected by childhood cancer. To kickoff the month, the partners unveiled the Superhero Keeper Kit – a custom-designed jersey featuring artwork by Fritz Stark, a childhood cancer survivor and advocate.

The game-worn kits were auctioned off at the end of the month – and along with a ticket giveback donation program, raised over $2,000 for the Super Fritz & Friends Fund.

Republic FC Goalkeeper Carlos Saldaña & Fritz Stark

Community Tickets

In September, the club worked with 70 non-profit organizations to provide over 1,000 free tickets. Learn more about Republic FC’s community ticket program at SacRepublicFC.com/Community.

Republic FC & Special Olympics Unified Team Play First Match on Sunday

Earlier this season, Republic FC and Special Olympics Northern California partnered to celebrate inclusion on the pitch, bringing together athletes from across the region on the first unified team in Sacramento soccer history. After a month of weekly training sessions, bringing the club and players of all ages closer together, Republic FC’s squad takes the pitch for its first-ever match this weekend. Following Sunday’s first-team contest against Las Vegas Lights FC, Republic FC’s Unified Team faces off against its counterparts from the San Jose Earthquakes.

The Matchup: SACvSJ

7:00 PM PT kickoff following Republic FC’s match against Las Vegas
Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California
Interested in watching the action at the Unified Team match? Stick around after the final whistle of the club’s USL Championship contest vs. Las Vegas Lights FC

Republic FC’s squad is led by Filip Handl, the club’s Manager of Soccer Programming and a longtime volunteer with Special Olympics. Handl is joined on the sidelines by Assistant Head Coaches Nick and Shelly Suarez and Joanna Pastor, each a veteran of Special Olympics programs in Northern California.

“Our team has come a long way in a short time,” said Handl of Republic FC’s Unified Team. “This program has been tremendous for the club and all the athletes involved, and it’s exciting to get it off the ground for the very first game here in Sacramento. We’re looking forward to what should be a spirited, fun, inclusive day for everyone at our club and at Heart Health Park.”

Sacramento’s roster enters the game with a ton of cohesion and experience playing together. Despite training as a team for just over a month’s time, many members of the squad have been teammates at other soccer programs across the region. Further, they’ve benefitted from the support of Republic FC first-team players, many of which have attended training sessions in the run up to the match. The 21 players on the roster also represent nearly every part of the Sacramento region, from Galt, to Lincoln, to El Dorado Hills in addition to Sacramento and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Unified teams are a growing staple in the U.S. Soccer community. Once rare, today all 29 clubs in Major League Soccer and six in USL Championship and USL League One field a Unified Team in partnership with local Special Olympics organizations. With more in development and set to take the pitch across the country in the coming year, the program has a big future ahead.

Damia Viader and Republic FC give back to 988 Lifeline operators

“These people are working every day to save lives and help people who are going through really difficult things in their lives, said Viader. “So they’re heroes, really. And it was really nice to come and meet everyone here to thank them for everything that they do.”

The call center is the second largest crisis center in California answering more than 100,000 calls, texts, and chats from across the country. “We operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Sandra Funk, WellSpace Health’s Associate Director of Suicide Prevention & Crisis Services. “By working with Republic FC, we are able to connect with the community more to say that ‘988 is here, and we’re here to help in Sacramento, in California, and nationwide.’”

This season, Viader and his teammates have become advocates for the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – by wearing a 988 patch on their home and away jerseys. “When we added the 988 patch to our kits this year, it was an opportunity to share a resource that is not only available in the Sacramento community, but nationwide as well,” said Republic FC Director of Community Investment Kevin Burdick. “So even when we’re going on the road to different markets, this patch is relevant.”

“I wear this patch with pride,” Viader told the operators. “It’s important for people to know about 988, and by just wearing this patch we are telling fans that it’s ok to ask for help and that there are people ready to help them.”

El Futuro Scholarship: First-Generation College Student Wants to Impact Region’s Mental Health Care for Hispanic & Latino Community

On Noche Latina, Republic FC and the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce presented 21-year-old Missael Sanchez as the recipient of the 5^th annual El Futuro Scholarship. A first generation college student, Sanchez is currently attending UC Davis studying Neurology, Physiology, and Behavior in a pre-med track to use as a stepping stone for medical school. Long-term, he hopes to make an impact on local mental health resources and services, especially in the Hispanic and Latino community.

From left: Cathy Rodriguez Aguirre, Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President & CEO; Missael Sanchez, 2023 El Futuro Scholarship Recipient; Rita Gallardo Good, Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

“My journey is not solely about my own aspirations; it’s about channeling my experiences, my education, and my voice to spotlight the struggles of the marginalized and to work tirelessly towards a more equitable and compassionate world,” says Sanchez. “In the realm of mental health, it is my fervent belief that every person, regardless of their background, deserves the opportunity to attain well-being and resilience, and I am committed to being a catalyst for change in achieving this vision.”

In addition to his studies, Sanchez volunteers at Clínica Tepati – an undergraduate and medical student-run clinic that offers free medical services to the undocumented Latino community in the Sacramento region. At the clinic, students get first-hand experience of the day-to-day operations of the healthcare system – from receptionists and lab technicians, to educators and mental health advocates, and more.

“Clínica Tepati holds deep personal significance to me as it represents a beacon of hope, compassion, and resilience for underserved communities. It reminds me of the transformative impact that can be achieved when individuals come together to uplift one another. It fuels my own passion for healthcare equity and reinforces the belief that change is possible, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.”

Sanchez draws on his personal experience and the culture he was raised in to grow and make a difference in the community. He has also added a minor in Chicano Studies to better understand the diverse history of his Mexican heritage and all cultures that are encapsulated in the Hispanic and Latino communities.

“As I continue my journey through higher education, I carry with me my stories, the hopes, and the struggles of my community. I am determined to be a catalyst for change, not only by advocating for equitable mental health resources but by embodying the resilience and strength that define the Hispanic and Latino spirit.”

On his advice for other Hispanic and Latino students who are thinking about pursuing a higher education – especially those who might be the first in their family to do so – Sanchez says: “Go for it, the sky’s the limit. In this country the American Dream is knowing when and how to break barriers and challenge yourself. I feel like being in uncomfortable situations is fostering growth in yourself and growth development. I feel like just going for it and although you may not expect the outcome, just knowing that you tried is all that matters.”

Celebrate the passion of the beautiful game with our latest collection: Pasión y Orgullo

Discover the vibrant fusion of culture, sport, and design in our latest merchandise collection, a collaboration with local artists Rosa and Antonio Sarabia of Azules Design Studio. 10% of scarf proceeds will benefit La Familia Counseling Center.

SHOP THE COLLECTION TODAY

Saturday’s Noche Latina to Celebrate Sacramento’s Hispanic Community, Honor Region’s Changemakers

To kick off Hispanic Heritage Month, Republic FC and SMUD are teaming up to host the club’s annual Noche Latina match tomorrow night at Heart Health Park. From limited-edition merchandise and a pop-up makers mart, to special presentations that recognize Hispanic leaders in our community, here’s what fans can expect throughout the night.

Pasión y Orgullo: Hispanic Heritage Collection

The Pasión y Orgullo collection is available online now at Shop.SacRepublicFC.com and will be available in the team store at Heart Health Park. This year, 10% of the collection’s scarf proceeds will go to La Familia Counseling Center.

Here’s what the artists had to say about some of the special details behind this year’s artwork and design process:

“The colorful flags pay homage to the nationalities of some of the Republic FC players, but they are also meant to represent the vast diversity of nationalities and backgrounds that make up the Spanish-speaking community in Sacramento and the U.S.”
“When thinking about the words we used for the design, we knew it would have to be in Spanish, so the most obvious choice was to use ‘Fútbol.’ For us, language holds a special kind of power and meaning. To use “Fútbol” is to recall the countless games we played with our friends when we were kids, the many get-togethers with family as a match played in the background, the joys and tears following our national teams through every World Cup.”
“We drew a lot of inspiration from the vintage Futbol and Olympic posters of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. These designs combined typography with stylized figures, multiple colors and interesting shapes to create some of the most memorable posters. For us, and many Latinos, this particular design style became ubiquitous in our native countries, a visual aesthetic that was widely adopted and has become instantly recognizable for us.”

El Mercado

Stop by the Fan Zone at Heart Health Park for a special pop-up makers mart. El Mercado is a one-night only shopping experience featuring Hispanic and Latino artists, crafters, and vendors.

Leadership Recognitions

As a part of the evening’s festivities, the club and its partners will highlight some incredible folks making a difference in the Sacramento community.

El Futuro Scholarship: In partnership with the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, a $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a local student exhibiting exceptional scholastic leadership and community involvement
SMUD Juntos Leadership Award: In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Republic FC and SMUD have teamed up to create an annual award highlight the amazing work of an individual or organization in our community that is doing amazing work. This year’s award will be presented to La Familia Counseling Center in South Sacramento.

Food & Drink Specials

In addition to a new Legacy Margarita featuring Tequila Corralejo’s Reposado, special Hispanic-inspired food options will be offered throughout the stadium.

Food Trucks

Yolanda’s Tamales
It’s Nacho
California Street Tacos
Tacos Locos

Stadium Food Stands

Green Chili Burger ($13)
Carne Asada Fries ($11)

In-Stadium Performances & Additional Elements

Throughout the night, fans will hear Public Address announcements in Spanish, courtesy of guest emcee Javier Arellano, as well as a specially-curated playlist created by Republic FC’s Hispanic and Latino players.

In a pre-game performance, Folklorico Nuevo Amanecer will express Mexican culture through the art of dance before SMUD’s LUNA (Latinos Unity Network for Action) Employee Resource Group and La Familia present the flags from various Spanish-speaking countries.

Kickoff for Noche Latina is set for 7:00 p.m. and tickets are still available at SacRepublicFC.com/Tickets. Fans who can’t make it out for the match can catch all the action at home on Antenna TV 40.2, FOX40.com, the FOX40 News mobile app, and ESPN+. All matches are available in both English and Spanish, with longtime broadcasters Armando Botello and Milton Moreno on the Spanish feed.

Custom-Designed Superhero Keeper Kit to Drive Awareness for Childhood Cancer

Throughout September, Republic FC and founding partner UC Davis Health are teaming up to drive awareness and raise funds for patients and families affected by childhood cancer. Today, the partners unveiled the Superhero Keeper Kit – a custom-designed jersey that will be worn by Republic FC goalkeepers for the club’s three remaining matches this month and will be auctioned off at the end of the month to benefit the Super Fritz & Friends Fund.

“We are proud to once again team up with UC Davis Health to honor the children and families that are facing this terrible disease and celebrate the Indomitable spirit that they show every day,” said Republic FC President and General Manager Todd Dunivant. “There are so many ways that the community can support people affected by childhood cancer, and we are grateful to have the platform to provide various opportunities for our fans to get involved.”

“We are thankful for the partnership with Republic FC and the chance to raise awareness about childhood cancer,” said Joseph Galante, UC Davis Health Interim Chief Medical Officer. “Our pediatric cancer patients and their families face many challenges throughout their journeys. We are grateful for this opportunity to help raise funds to assist them along the path to remission.”

The kit was developed by Fritz Stark, a childhood cancer survivor, and signed by patients receiving care through Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance. Printed in gold – the signature color for childhood cancer awareness – special hand-drawn elements include a soccer ball, goalkeeper glove, and cancer awareness ribbons. For the month of September, the club’s crest is replaced by a special “Superhero” star positioned over the heart.

A public auction for the kits will be opened later in the month with proceeds benefitting the Super Fritz & Friends fund.

Fritz was diagnosed with Leukemia at age two and went on to receive treatment at the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center. During his treatment, Fritz was given the nickname “Super Fritz” after continuously displaying a can-do and energetic attitude. To show their gratitude for his care, Fritz’s parents and friends established the Super Fritz & Friends fund in 2019 to subsidize a new staff position that would enhance resources for families battling pediatric cancer. The fund met its original goal in November 2021, and now works to fund additional services – including lodging assistance, insurance coordination, and financial aid for essential needs like groceries and transportation.

At Republic FC’s September 20 home match against New Mexico United, the club will host Superhero Night presented by UC Davis Health to celebrate the true superheroes – the children and families fighting childhood cancer every day and the healthcare workers that are there every step of the way. Special elements will be added throughout the night, including in-stadium appearances from favorite superheroes and a memorable Starting XI. As a special nod to Super Fritz himself, the club is teaming up with UC Davis Health to giveaway a co-branded superhero cape for the first 1,000 fans in attendance. On the field, the club will switch its nets and corner flags to gold, while the Superhero Keeper Kit will be on full display in front of the club’s home fans.

Additionally, Republic FC has activated a ticket giveback program that will run the entire month of September, donating $1 from every ticket sold through September 30 to the Super Fritz & Friends Fund. Tickets for the remainder of the regular season are available now at SacRepublicFC.com/tickets.

Republic FC is back in action this Saturday, hosting El Paso Locomotive FC on Noche Latina powered by SMUD. Kickoff from Heart Health Park is set for 7:00 p.m. and tickets are available at SacRepublicFC.com/tickets. The match will also be broadcast live in English and Spanish on Antenna TV 40.2, FOX40.com, and the FOX40 News mobile app, as well as streaming on ESPN+.

Sacramento’s History in the Community No Small Feat Through Ten Seasons

Republic FC’s connection to the Sacramento community is a huge focus of this Saturday’s 10^th Season Celebration match at Hughes Stadium. Since the club’s inception, Republic FC has led the charge to make Sacramento a better place to work and play, embracing a responsibility to protect one another. Without the community’s support, the club could never have reached the point it is at today.

At this weekend’s match, the club will celebrate ten years of serving the Sacramento community. Ten organizations will be honored at halftime for their constant efforts to help those that call Sacramento home – including their work with the club over the past ten years. Ahead of the match, take a look back at some of the top moments in the club’s community history led by those very organizations.

2016: Republic FC players shave their head for childhood cancer awareness

A staple in midtown every spring, St. Baldricks Head Shaving event is held to raise money for Keaton’s Childhood Cancer Alliance and aid organizations leading research and family services for those with pediatric cancer. In 2016, Republic FC goalkeeper Dominik Jakubek, defender Emrah Klimenta, forwards Thommy Stewart, Harry Williams and Mackenzie Pridham joined the festivities, launching the club’s yearly involvement in the tremendous cause. Each year since, Republic FC players have joined in to help raise money and awareness, with goalkeeper Carlos Saldaña, Rodrigo Lopez and Head Coach Mark Briggs participating in 2023.

2018: Republic FC, Street Soccer USA team up to Crown a National Champion

For three days in Old Sacramento, local soccer non-profit Street Soccer USA brought together its 14 sister organizations from across the country for a tournament to share their love for the beautiful game. UC Davis Health and the Republic FC brought their support, as the three organizations joined together to unite Sacramento around soccer, promoting healthy living and building an inclusive community to lift one another up. Each year, Republic FC continues to highlight Street Soccer USA’s work, which brings thousands of players to the pitch every year with the goal of helping them overcome challenges in their own lives on the pitch. This past Summer, Republic FC players joined Street Soccer USA’s hosting of the Homeless World Cup at Sacramento State University.

2019: Republic FC Opens first futsal court at Maple Park

Football is huge in the Sacramento region – evidenced by the robust youth soccer community that calls the Capital City home. In 2019, the club opened its first futsal court at Maple Park to serve that community in collaboration with La Familia Counseling Center, providing players across the region a safe space to take the pitch in their very own neighborhood no matter where they live. To date, the club has opened 12 futsal courts across the region from Citrus Heights to South Sacramento, to Natomas in partnership with the city, local leaders and community organizations to each serve a unique segment of the population.

2019: Republic FC Honors First Annual Pride Scholar

In 2019, Republic FC extended its community investment to students of the region. Teaming up with its midtown neighbors at the Sacramento LGBT Community Center, the club honored a local student at its annual Pride Night match with a $1,000 scholarship. Sac-State bound Raven Armour was the recipient of the inaugural award, which has been presented to four other students in the season’s since including this past June 24.

2021: Republic FC’s home drives awareness and action

Ahead of the 2021 season, Republic FC expanded its partnership with community-based non-profit Western Health Advantage to make the club’s home at Cal Expo the first venue named to address a global health concern. With the support of the American Heart Association, Heart Health Park has continued to be a community center for action around cardiovascular health – supporting the club’s efforts to offer heart-healthy concessions options and train staff, coaches, and players alike on life saving CPR techniques. Since, the AHA has also teamed with the club to provide a platform for local students – who are recognized at halftime on matchdays throughout the season – to raise important funds for cardiovascular health initiatives.

2022: Week of Service makes a daily impact leading to season-opener

To kick off the club’s ninth season in 2022, members of the club’s staff, players, and supporters took into the community every day of the week leading into the season-opener. The Club’s inaugural Week of Service aided community organizations serving all reaches of the region- from veterans at the American Legion in Rio Linda, to kids in P.E. class at Robla Elementary school, to young girls starting their soccer careers with a free all-girls soccer clinic in Land Park. Republic FC players and coaches were trained in CPR as a collaborative effort between the club, partner Medic Ambulance, and the American Heart Association to help further educate Sports professionals on life-saving techniques.

2023: Sacramento’s kits make light of important issues

At the start of the 2023 season, Republic FC became a leading organization in mental health advocacy in California as well as nation-wide. As part of a partnership with WellSpace Health, the club’s kits displayed a patch with three letters on its sleeve they hope can lead those who need help directly to it. 988 – the number for the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline providing direct access to assistance for those experiencing a mental health emergency or just need support – became available and aware to every crowd in attendance at a first-team or academy match, viewer watching on TV or streaming, and individual following the club on social media.

Join the Republic FC and Special Olympics Unified Team

Looking for a way to celebrate inclusion and the experiences that only being on a soccer team can bring? Republic FC and Special Olympics Northern California are teaming up for a new Unified Team and are recruiting players to join the squad as a Unified Partner.

Last month, Republic FC hosted a free soccer camp for Special Olympics athletes, and 15 participants were selected to join the Unified Team. And now, the team is looking to add 10 more partners – individuals without intellectual disabilities – to the roster.

Sign up to be a Unified Partner today!

Led by Filip Handl, a longtime youth training coach for Republic FC and volunteer with Special Olympics, the Sacramento Republic Unified Team is open to people 18-38 years old. Having sport in common is just one more way that preconceptions and false ideas are swept away, especially when partners are all close in age.

The Sacramento Republic Unified Team starts practice this month and will continue through October, when the season culminates with a final exhibition game against another Unified Team. Additional matches and experiences will be added to the schedule, including opportunities to meet Republic FC players and coaches. Each player will also receive a team jersey and an invitation to participate in the 2024 team.

For more information or to sign up to be a partner, complete the interest form.