March was an active month for LAFC’s community impact work, with programs focused on youth access, inclusion, and empowerment. We welcomed partners and families for matchday experiences, hosted Special Olympics Unified kick-off experiences, and recognized Women’s Empowerment Month through events that connected young leaders to opportunities in sports. Each effort reflected our ongoing commitment to showing up for and investing in the communities we serve.
On March 7, we welcomed Big Brothers Big Sisters of Los Angeles for LAFC’s match against FC Dallas. Four representatives from the organization, along with both big/little brothers and sisters joined us for a once-in-a-lifetime match day experience. Thanks to our partners at BMO, the group received complimentary tickets, LAFC gear, and food vouchers followed by an on-the-pitch moment to meet Eddie Segura and take some penalty kicks (PKs) together.
In preparation for our 2026 Special Olympics Unified Season, in partnership with BMO, we hosted an open call tryout for players across Los Angeles. More than 55 participants took part in a series of drills and scrimmages, while also having the opportunity to socialize and connect with one another.
In celebration of Women’s Empowerment Month, LAFC proudly hosted a panel highlighting the impact and opportunities for women in sports. Prior to our home match against St. Louis, we invited 30 girls from both the 2026 Special Olympics Unified Team and the Bresee Youth Leadership Program to join the women of LAFC for a conversation about the many pathways across the sports industry.Â
Following the match, the girls joined us on the field for PKs to celebrate the next generation of female leaders in sports and in our community.
In partnership with Make-A-Wish Greater Los Angeles, we hosted 6 year-old, Lucas and his family ahead of the LAFC vs. St. Louis match. Lucas and his family traveled from Singapore to achieve his lifelong dream of meeting Son Heung-Min. The family had the opportunity to enjoy training and meet the team and walk out with Son and the LAFC team. Lucas is currently going through immunotherapy and sees Son as an inspiration for an Asian player to play both in the EPL & now LAFC. Lucas was given a drawing of Son by the hospital and brings it along when he is admitted for chemotherapy treatment.
In honor of Women’s Empowerment Month, we visited the young female leaders from the Bresee Foundation’s LAFC Youth Leadership Program. In doing so, we captured updated headshots and asked the girls for advice and insight around the influence that sports can have on the next generation.
To kick off the third season of the LAFC Special Olympics Unified Team, we celebrated our 2026 roster at BMO Stadium with an official Signing Day event. Our Unified team of 22 athletes and partners was joined by dedicated volunteers and staff, who created custom signs and brought incredible energy to the celebration.
Each player officially signed their contract and had the opportunity to enter the locker room to receive their custom kit and LAFC apparel—getting them prepped and excited for the season ahead.
The Unified Team, in partnership with Special Olympics Southern California and supported by BMO, brings together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities for a season of training, competition, and meaningful team experiences.
We were also honored to have Jason Miknuk and Olly in attendance, along with Co-President & General Manager John Thorrington and LAFC defender Ryan Hollingshead, who came out to support the team.
