Sporting Kansas City’s Unified Team had a jam-packed and memorable week. With Sporting KC hosting Real Salt Lake for a Unified doubleheader, the days were full of excitement, connection, and competition.
The week kicked off with a toasty training session at Compass Minerals Sporting Fields, where the team was joined by Unified Team Ambassador Mason Toye and Sporting KC forward Santiago Muñoz. Both players jumped right in running drills, offering tips, and most importantly, motivating the athletes with their presence and energy.
On Wednesday, the Unified Team players Angel and German Castillo were recognized during halftime of the Sporting KC vs. Charlotte FC game, as the Castillo brothers will represent Sporting KC at the All-Star Unified Game. Hiland Dairy provided their family and Special Olympics staff with 25 tickets to celebrate this achievement and cheer on Angel and German before they head down to Austin to represent SKC. Hiland Dairy is also outfitting the team with First Team apparel for their season travels, so all players can have access to a First Team experience as Sporting KC's competitive Special Olympics team
On Thursday, the team took to the field again for a final practice, dialing in the details before their long-awaited game. Then on Friday, the Sporting KC Unified squad welcomed their RSL counterparts in true Kansas City fashion with a trip to Kauffman Stadium to catch the Royals take on the LA Dodgers. It was the perfect off-the-pitch moment for both teams to bond, share laughs, and soak up the spirit of sport.
Then came Saturday. Game day.
The teams arrived at Children’s Mercy Victory Field at Swope Soccer Village, with warmups kicking off around 10 a.m. As the morning sun climbed higher, so did the energy in the stands. Fans from both sides showed up, but the hometown crowd made sure Sporting’s athletes felt the love.
Before kickoff, Sporting KC Unified Head Coach Phil Gomez brought the team together for a pregame huddle. He reminded the squad to compete hard, have fun, and stay composed. “If you make a mistake, that’s fine,” Coach Gomez said. “It’s how you come back. It’s competitive…but make sure to enjoy it.”
Then came the announcement of team captains: Josh Toplikar and Alessandro Rubio, recognized for their dedication, inclusivity, and positive attitude throughout training. Amid cheers and applause, they pulled on their captain’s armbands and led the pregame chant: “Sporting on three!”
With the national anthem played and both teams lined up, the whistle blew. Game on.
The match opened with strong play from both sides. RSL found the net early in the 8th minute, but Sporting KC responded with focus and resilience. Goalkeeper Tyler Robonei was a steady presence between the posts, making key stops to keep the deficit manageable. Defender Shay Keller-Novelli came up big with crucial clearances, helping to limit RSL’s chances.
Though the game ended with RSL edging out a point, the final whistle brought both teams together in a show of true sportsmanship. They shook hands, posed for a group photo, and celebrated the spirit of Unified Sports. Post-match, players, partners, coaches, and staff gathered for a shared meal, swapping stories and reliving highlights from an unforgettable weekend.
Before parting ways, the teams exchanged gifts: Sporting KC handed out custom match-up scarves, while RSL gifted team hats. But the day wasn’t over just yet. Both Unified squads later reunited at Children’s Mercy Park to be honored during the first team’s Sporting KC vs RSL match, watching their MLS counterparts face off just like they had.
Sporting KC’s Unified Team now turns their focus to the return trip. An away match in Salt Lake City on September 13. Follow their journey at SportingKC.com/Unified and stay up to date on all things Unified by following @VictoryKC on X (formerly Twitter).