Harrisburg City Islanders News Release -- www.cityislanders.com
Monday, July 11, 2011
HARRISBURG, Pa. -- The Philadelphia Union and the Harrisburg City Islanders, the Union's USL PRO affiliate, announced today an exhibition match to be played on Wednesday, August 24, at Skyline Sports Complex in Harrisburg, Pa. The match, which is scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. EST, will be the Union's second appearance at City Island, as they played to a 1-1 draw on July 27, 2010.
"These exhibitions matches are a fantastic way to reinforce our partnership and a special treat for fans in the Harrisburg area, many of whom are fans of both clubs," said Union CEO & Operating Partner Nick Sakiewicz. "The Islanders are a first-class organization and a critical part of our player development model. Sheanon Williams is just the perfect example to show there's a clear path from Harrisburg to Philadelphia."
The Union and the Islanders became official partners in March 2010, providing with an option to loan players to Harrisburg for increased playing time. The partnership also resulted in Philadelphia signing starting right back Sheanon Williams after the player closed the 2010 season with Harrisburg.
"We're excited to bring the Philadelphia Union back to Harrisburg, to play on our field and in front of our great fans," said City Islanders General Manager Kierstin Rowe. "It's also a great opportunity for our players to be seen by the Union's coaching staff."
All tickets for the match, youth and adult, will be $15 general admission. Tickets are on sale today, Monday, July 11, at 10:00 a.m., and may be purchased at www.cityislanders.com or by calling 717-441-GOAL. Tickets will be limited; purchasing in advance is strongly recommended.
"This is a great opportunity for our team and our players to test themselves against a top team from the MLS," said City Islanders Head Coach Bill Becher. "We look forward to the challenge, and I know our players are excited for this game."
The Union is currently tied for first place in MLS' Eastern Conference with a 7-4-7 record, after a 2-2 tie against the San Jose Earthquakes at Buck Shawn Stadium on July 9.
The City Islanders, unbeaten in five games and 6-1-2 in their last nine outings, have surged into second place in USL PRO's National Division with a 7-4-4 mark. The club will travel to North Carolina this week to play the Charlotte Eagles and Wilmington Hammerheads.