On Wednesday, September 28, Republic FC will host its annual Noche Latina match, powered by SMUD, where elements on and off the field will highlight elements of Sacramento’s vibrant Hispanic and Latinx community. Through October 15th, the club and its partners are activating unique celebrations, community programming, and showcasing regional ties throughout Hispanic Heritage Month.
“We cherish the opportunity to work alongside our partners SMUD and the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for a month-long celebration of Hispanic Heritage,” said Republic FC Vice President of Community Investment Scott Moak. “Honoring and embracing diversity have been staples of our club culture from day one, and this month affords us the chance to do even more to make deeper, lasting impacts in our Hispanic and Latinx communities.”
“SMUD is committed to being an inclusive employer that represents the diverse Sacramento community that it serves,” said Rhonda Staley-Brooks, SMUD Manager of Community Relations, Outreach & Events. “We are thrilled to partner with Republic FC for this year’s Noche Latina to shine a light on the Hispanic community and the vital role it plays in the strength of our region.”
The September 28 match against Phoenix Rising FC will recognize and honor the Hispanic and Latinx community through special food and beverage options, entertainment, presentations, storytelling, and more. Prior to kickoff, a Brazilian drumline will greet guests in style as they enter the stadium. Fans can purchase their favorite Hispanic food or try something new from one of the special food trucks on the concourse. Republic FC players of Hispanic and Latinx origin will get to show their national pride when their country flags are displayed during pre-game festivities. The club will also highlight these connections throughout the month through written features and video content.
During halftime, the club will honor the recipient of the third annual El Futuro Scholarship, presented in partnership with the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Including this year, the partners have provided $4,000 in scholarship funds to deserving students of Hispanic heritage, which helps to develop a diverse and thriving workforce. Nominations for the scholarship are now being accepted at SacRepublicFC.com/scholarship.
As part of its commitment to supporting the region’s Hispanic youth and providing unique development and enrichment opportunities, SMUD will donate 250 tickets to local Hispanic-focused non-profits, including La Familia Counseling Center and Casa de Español. The company will also present a leadership award in partnership with the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, recognizing a community leader of Hispanic origin who is making an impact on the region.
Fans watching from home can catch the match in Spanish on Antenna TV 40.2 using the SAP function or streaming on FOX40.com and the FOX40 News Mobile App – featuring Republic FC’s veteran broadcasters Armando Botello and Milton Moreno. The duo has been on the call for the Indomitable Club since 2018 and are just one of a handful of Spanish language broadcast crews in USL.
A unique, vibrant Hispanic Heritage merchandise capsule is now available in the Team Store and at Republic FC home matches – including Noche Latina. Designed in-house by Republic FC’s creative team, the collection was inspired by Mexico’s colorful artwork, which often features geometric patterns. The limited-edition merchandise line features a scarf, shirt, tote bag, shot glass, hat, and a decal. Ten percent of scarf proceeds will benefit La Familia Counseling Center in South Sacramento. For more than 40 years, La Familia has provided free programs and support services to low income, at-risk youth, including health and mental health services, after-school programs, and parenting classes.
Republic FC is back in action this Saturday, when the squad travels to Texas to face San Antonio FC. The match kicks off at 5:30 p.m. PT and will be broadcast in English and Spanish on Antenna TV 40.2, FOX40.com and the FOX40 News mobile app, as well as streaming on ESPN+. The Indomitable Club will then return home on September 28 for Noche Latina Powered by SMUD. Tickets are available at SacRepublicFC.com/Tickets.
