When Philadelphia Union return to Talen Energy Stadium on March 2 for their 2019 home opener, the squad will have some new faces on the pitch. Additionally, there will be exciting new gameday experiences for fans that show up to let Toronto FC know they're in Philly.
First, there are the new food options: Zac's Burgers is coming to the stadium, bringing their popular burgers and fried chicken sammies with chipotle chili sauce. Chanks' Pizza Cones will also be in Talen for the first time this year, and PJ Whelihan's is adding boneless wings and buffalo chicken wraps to their menus.
That's a pretty good list, but if you stay tuned to the Union's social channels, you may catch a few more big announcements about the food and beverage options at the stadium in 2019.
And while you definitely want to start each match with a full stomach this season, you'll also want to hit your seat with some fresh threads. The Union's 10th Season Collection will be dropping in the main Union store at the stadium as well as in the new, upgraded merch stands in Talen.
Oh, and don't forget -- the Union shop is the only spot to get your 10th Season "Inspired" kit customized with the back tag of your choice. Philly's big names designed them, players already picked their favorites, and now it's your turn. Swing into the shop to get your kit and tag before the first whistle.
Speaking of the 10th Season, we are going all out to let every opponent know This Is Philly, and this is the Union's tenth year in MLS. Talen will be covered with unique new signage and artwork to celebrate a decade of Union soccer, so keep your eyes out for everything new when you make your first visit this season.
You know there's more we can't tell you about, right? In addition to some brand new activities out on the plaza this year, there will be some novel ways for fans to get closer to the players and the action than ever before (but you know we can't give it all away now!). Okay, one hint: The player of the match? Yeah, we're going all out to make sure they get recognized in 2019. Be ready, Union fans!
And we can't close this out without mentioning that it's Phang's first full season as the Union's mascot! Get those kids out to the plaza before the match to meet Phang and join his kids' club. We'll be rolling out more perks and making sure that the snake that can't get enough soccer is always around to help grow your child's love of the game. Phang has already been on PHL17 helping give Philly more insight into what soccer is, how the Sons of Ben helped bring soccer to Philly, and what to expect from the Union in 2019, and he's just getting started.
So no more waiting: It's time to get ready for the 2019 MLS season! This is a playoff team that brought in one of Mexico's best; it's a squad that doubled down on the idea that teamwork and heart can be the core tenets of a successful year. And they need the whole city at their back to make this a special 10th season.
See you at the stadium on March 2!
