MLS Unites: Bringing the soccer community together during COVID-19 pandemic

MLS Unitesis a league-wide platform launched in partnership with the MLS Player Association that highlights all of the efforts that players, coaches, the clubs and the league are making to address the important messages and programs taking place during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As part of MLS Unites, a series of programs involving MLS clubs, players, coaches, staff, partners and fans will seek to:

Educate and inform fans on the importance of key health and safety messaging;
Provide fun and engaging content featuring MLS players that will keep them connected to our fans and drive relevance during the postponement of the season;
Showcase and celebrate community “heroes,” who are fighting the pandemic on the frontlines.

A message from Commissioner Garber

“Bringing together our Major League Soccer community, all while staying apart, is the spirit of ‘MLS Unites,’” said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. “During this challenging moment in history, I know we can count on the MLS family to come together when we need each other most. Together with our fans, players, teams and partners, we will shine a light on what can be done, and on the heroes leading the way.”

How each club is impacting their community

Select a club name for a detailed look at what each of the league's 30 clubs is doing to inform, engage and inspire. Fans can connect with their team to find ways to show support in their local communities.

I. Educate

MLS is consulting regularly with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Health Canada (HC), infectious disease specialists and other public health entities to receive and share the most updated information and guidance on the COVID-19 pandemic.

The league created an essential guide with COVID-19 information, including a six-step graphic on how to prevent the spread, along with mental health information and coping tips, ways to support relief efforts and more.

Symptoms and testing info from USA's CDC and Health Canada
How two MLS teams are managing mental health during social distancing
Resource: Coping with stress and helping children do the same
Former All-Star Robbie Keane delivers message of support to MLS fans
Thierry Henry's plea to fans: Don't take it lightly
Austin FC's Matthew McConaughey releases inspirational video

II. Entertain

MLS is joining forces with its media partners in the U.S., Canada and throughout the world to bring a robust programming plan to fans over the coming weeks.

MLS is also leveraging technology to bring the soccer community together during this time of social distancing through an enhanced fan engagement plan featuring dynamic programming and groundbreaking new content experiences including: classic matches, player chats, live at-home workouts and eMLS events featuring eSports players and first-team MLS players.

Miss the matches? Check out these eMLS fundraisers and match simulations
NBA All-Star & 'Caps owner Steve Nash leads at-home workout
How MLS players are staying fit, plus watch these videos of their exercises
MLS Mount Rushmore: Each club's top players in history
Timbers' Blanco pulls out the pranks during isolation
Reggie Cannon's tips for TV shows and video games to pass the time
Inter Miami unveils new social distancing badge
Seattle's Stefan Frei dives into his art during suspension
Miami's Lee Nguyen acquires new skill while social distancing
Classic MLS Matches: Watch them in full and on demand
Top soccer books and soccer movies to enjoy at home

III. Elevate

MLS WORKS, the league’s social responsibility platform, will celebrate individuals across the U.S. and Canada who are making a difference in the fight against COVID-19 through a Community Heroes program to be unveiled at a later date.

In the meantime, MLS will feature select stories shared by clubs, players and fans using the hashtag #MLSUnites: from healthcare workers, to small business owners and other members of the community helping their fellow citizens during these difficult times. It began with recognizing the heroic work of medical professionals on National Doctors Day (March 30).

Former MLSer now an attending physician at NYC emergency room
Union establish matchday employee assistance fund
Sounders pledge to help CenturyLink workers and local businesses
MLS owners David Tepper, Arthur Blank and Haslam family donate millions to relief efforts
Montreal's Victor Wanyama donates sanitizing kits to Kenyan families