Nope, it’s not the summer transfer window… but it sure felt like it!
On May 20, Sporting Kansas City rolled out the blue carpet for its annual Special Olympics Signing Day, and the energy was off the charts! A total of 21 incredible athletes officially signed on to represent Sporting KC’s Special Olympics Unified Team for the 2025 season and trust us, this squad is stacked with heart, hustle, and a whole lot of joy.
Now in its tenth year, this amazing partnership between Sporting KC and The Victory Project continues to bring together athletes with and without disabilities, uniting them as one team for a two-game series showdown. This year, the Unified squad will face Real Salt Lake.
This year’s draft-day magic took place at the legendary Children’s Mercy Park, where athletes were welcomed by Chioma Atanmo, Senior Director of The Victory Project, and Declan Jogi, Director of the SKC Academy. Waiting at each seat? A customized One KC jersey, there were some serious smiles as each athlete quickly put their jersey on.
One by one, athletes stepped up to the front, pens in hand, and signed their official team contracts. Each signature brought thunderous cheers from friends, family, teammates, and staff. It was more than a signing; it was a celebration of community, inclusion, and the power of the beautiful game.
But the day didn’t stop there.
Just like the pros, players had their official headshots snapped. But they also got to flex their creativity with goal celebration pics, group shots, and some heartwarming family portraits for two sibling duos on the team.
Then it was time to hit the pitch! The team assembled for their official team photo, followed by an inspiring speech from Unified Team Head Coach Phil Gomez, who hyped the squad up for the upcoming matches against RSL. With a final team huddle and a spirited “Sporting!” chant, the team thought the day was done… but the best surprise was still to come.
To the team’s surprise, Sporting KC players Mason Toye and Ryan Schewe showed up! The Unified Team Ambassadors popped in with big smiles and even bigger energy. They chatted with players, dished out advice, answered burning questions, and joined in on some epic celebration practice. (Yes, there was a cartwheel…shoutout to Chase Hitchcock and Mason Toye!)
As the day wrapped up, one thing was clear: this team is ready, this community is strong, and this season will be something special.
Mark your calendars: the series' first leg kicks off when Real Salt Lake comes to town on June 28. Follow along and cheer loudly because Sporting KC’s Unified Team is one to watch in 2025!
