After a virtual event in 2020, fans will get to experience Futures Night in-person at MSU Soccer Park tonight as New York Red Bulls II hosts Hartford Athletic. The event, which is in its second year, honors the Pre-Academy players of the club.
"We are excited for our second year of celebration of our Futures Night,” said NYRB II General Manager Jamie Ponce. “Our goal at the club is to not only continue the development of our future players, but the future leaders in our community, and the Pre-Academy player are the foundation in which we build that on. This year we are excited to celebrate them in person and give them the joy of being recognized "
The team will wear match-exclusive jerseys featuring the names of Pre-Academy players, and they will be auctioned off following the match with proceeds benefitting Wings for Life.
“It's a huge statement from the organization to build the names of our Pre-Academy players into the very fabric of the jerseys,” said Simon Barrow, Senior Manager of Player Development. “We're obviously a club that focuses on young talent, but to recognize the next generation when they're as young as eight or nine is truly something special.”
On the pitch, New York Red Bulls II will feature numerous current Academy products, as well as some former ones like Jake LaCava, Omar Sowe, and Daniel Edelman.
“Last year's inaugural Futures Night was so memorable for the kids, even in a virtual space,” Barrow said. “This year they get to see experience it live, and it will be a night they'll cherish forever.”
