The countdown is on! Just one week until Sporting Kansas City’s Special Olympics Unified Team takes the field against Real Salt Lake’s Unified Team on June 28, 2025. With matchday fast approaching, the squad stepped up their preparations with a competitive tune-up scrimmage.
On Monday, June 16, the Unified Team squared off against Sporting’s Front Office Team at Compass Minerals Sporting Fields. Made up of Sporting staff from departments like marketing, the academy, and youth development, many of whom also compete in Sporting’s Adult League, the Front Office squad brought plenty of energy (and a few sneaky skills) to the pitch.
The two sides played two 30-minute halves, complete with a 10-minute halftime and hydration breaks at the 15- and 45-minute marks due to the summer heat. The match wasn’t just about the scoreboard, it also gave the Unified Team a chance to rehearse their official pregame procession, led by head coach Phil Gomez.
The Front Office Team struck first, setting the tone for a back-and-forth battle. But the Unified Team wasn’t about to be outdone, equalizing shortly after and turning the game into an exciting goal-fest.
The Unified Team shined with goals coming from multiple players. Makhai Ezell had a standout performance, netting multiple goals and keeping pressure on the defense throughout. Antonio Romero showed off his versatility by holding it down in goal during the first half, keeping the Front Office from pulling away, before scoring in the second half himself.
After 60 action-packed minutes, the teams finished in a thrilling 6-6 draw. Both sides created plenty of chances right up to the final whistle. Both teams shook hands and exchanged GGs, leaving the pitch with a feeling of Sportsmanship and camaraderie.
Next up: one final training session before the big game on June 28 at 11 AM at Children’s Mercy Victory Field at Swope Park. Want to catch the action? Check out the schedule here and be sure to come out and support Sporting’s Unified Team as they kick off their two-game series!
Follow all the latest Unified Team news and updates at SportingKC.com/Unified.