The Philadelphia Union have quietly been having one of their best seasons in recent years. Currently, the Union sit in second place in the Eastern Conference with 52 points, only ranking behind New York City FC. On top of that, they have already clinched a playoff spot. While the team has been getting results on the field, they have also been performing off the pitch. 

  Every year during the month of September—Childhood Cancer Awareness Month—the Union have paired up with children in the greater Philadelphia area who have cancer to create a unique collaboration. The children help design custom cleats for the athletes to wear. 

  This year, 43 children were chosen to participate. The number 43 is significant in this statistic, because every day, 43 children are diagnosed with cancer. 

  Doug Vosik, Philadelphia Union Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications, commented on the work from the club and DEZ Customz, the group that helped bring the creations to life. “As a club, we wanted to honor these kids by connecting them with professional athletes through art and design. DEZ Customz did a phenomenal job making their art come to life and bringing awareness to the fight against childhood cancer,” he said.

  Some of the designs on the cleats include snakes, baseball bats, soccer balls, and Minions from Despicable Me. This year, other athletes, such as Jake Arrieta from the Philadelphia Phillies and Jakub Voráček from the Philadelphia Flyers have decided to take part and have some of their own equipment made. 

  “It’s amazing how this project has unified the professional teams in Philadelphia. What started as a project for the Union and these kids has turned into one supported by all of the pro teams in Philadelphia,” said Vosik. 

  With the regular season in the MLS racing to a close, the Philadelphia Union have managed to stay grounded and help out the community. In their last match against LAFC, the “Fearless 43” were presented to the crowd, and were welcomed with great applause.