Knight Life: Things to do Around Campus

Philadelphia Union Soccer Matches | Chester, PA

Soccer has been developing into one of the United States’ most popular sports, and what better team to support than the local Philadelphia Union?  

Located just 10 minutes from campus, Philadelphia’s Major League Soccer (MLS) team plays at Subaru Park in Chester, PA. Subaru Park can be found next to the Commodore Barry Bridge, providing a spectacular view for visitors- only one of the many exciting details surrounding the Philadelphia Union experience!  

Though it is the youngest of Philadelphia’s sports teams, the Union has already made a name for themselves. Since their inaugural season in 2010, the club has garnered eight MLS Cup Playoff appearances in total- the last six appearances being in order, since 2018. In 2022, the Union reached the MLS Cup Final, for the first time in club history.  

When they aren’t dominating on the pitch, the Philadelphia Union engages in several community and sustainability involvement initiatives to give back to their local fans. The Union’s home, Subaru Park, is the first zero-landfill soccer stadium in the MLS. More than 90% of the waste from this facility is reused or recycled and converted into energy.  

Continuing their trend of staying involved with their community, the Union introduced a Black History Month Pop-Up Market. This gathering began on February 1st and continued every Thursday from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. The final Pop-Up Market will be at the Union Power Plant on February 29th.  

Looking to continue their success in the MLS, the Philadelphia Union begin their season at home on Saturday, February 24 against the Chicago Fire. The Union, commonly nicknamed “The Boys in Blue,” were not only undefeated against the Fire last season, but they are also 5-1-3 in home openers. You won’t want to miss Saturday’s matchup! 

Neumann’s SM227- Sport Sales class is selling Philadelphia Union tickets at a discounted rate. If you are interested in buying tickets, please reach out to Ryen Hawkey- ry_hawkey@knights.neumann.edu 

https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/

Ridley Creek State Park 

Less than 20 minutes from campus, Ridley Creek State Park is a great cost-friendly option for anyone who likes to get active or enjoy nature. The park flaunts many activities, suitable for any bored college student! 

One of Delaware County’s nineteen forests, Ridley Creek State Park boasts exceptional scenery and animal watching though it is just sixteen miles from Philadelphia. Through the beautiful fields, meadows, and wetlands, visitors can view white-tailed deer, foxes, and raccoons. According to the Ridley Creek State Park webpage, great blue herons and other songbirds can often be seen at Ridley Creek.  

Ridley Creek is open every day, from sunrise to sunset, according to the park’s official website. During these hours, guests are welcome to participate in hiking, wildlife watching, picnicking, fishing, hunting and more. Horse riding is offered at Hidden Valley Farms, a stable on the property. Hidden Valley Farms provides riding lessons and pony rides, along with horse boarding and other horse-related services.  

Additionally, throughout the months, Ridley Creek hosts events to connect with the community. Some of these events include nature journaling and guided hikes.  

Ridley Creek State Park also offers hands-on environmental education programs, starting in April and ending in November. Participants can experience interactive activities, nature walks, and historical tours while volunteering in the trail maintenance program.  

https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/RidleyCreekStatePark/Pages/default.aspx