San Diego Wave FC today announced programming details for Military Appreciation Night, presented by PenFed Credit Union, for Friday, May 26, as the team takes on reigning NWSL Champions, Portland Thorns. Slated to kick off at Snapdragon Stadium at 7:00 p.m. PT, the match will be broadcast live on FOX 5 San Diego and streamed on Paramount+.
Active and retired service members can purchase discounted tickets here and can pick up a custom military themed Wave FC patch at the game with ID. All other single-game tickets can be purchased here. Additionally, the first 10,000 fans in attendance will receive a San Diego Wave flag, presented by PenFed.
Military Appreciation Night will feature a variety of activities and honors throughout the match:
Limited-Edition Merchandise Designed by a Member of the Military:
A military-inspired and limited-edition hat and t-shirt will be available at all Snapdragon Stadium merchandise store locations. San Diego Wave FC partnered with transitioning Army veteran and Wave employee, Keely Porterfield, to help design and execute the merchandise for the night.
Pregame Presentation:
There will be numerous military activations throughout the match, including inviting 1,000 military members and their families to the match. Following the playing of the National Anthem, there will be a special flyover from the U.S. Navy all-female pilot squadron to help kick off the match. Prior to the match, first-team players from the Wave will visit the U.S. Navy base on Coronado to meet with the pilot squadron.
The pre-game ceremony will continue with an honorary coin toss which will feature two Wave staff who are current and transitioning military members.
Special Guests:
During the game, a Military Hero of the Match will be featured and honored on the video board. Then at halftime, 12 Marines and support staff representing the first gender-integrated platoon at MCRD SD in 2021 will be recognized on-field. Both activities are presented by PenFed Credit Union.
