Sunday was gold medal games and awards at @villanovaspecialolympics
With our connection to the Philadelphia Soccer Program at @specialolympicspennsylvania we wanted to do a little shout out post.
Firstly, thanks to our VP @101_poncho and our Tech Director @eriksvendsenphilly y for escorting the @officialsupportersshield to the awards for all the soccer athletes. Everyone was so excited to see it there after O-Town on Saturday.
As the weekend came to a conclusion we found that in Philly, all that glitter are gold! We want to give a HUGE CONGRATS to Amelia and Liam in the Individual Skills for winning gold in their divisions, the 5v5 team for showing they had no quit and grinding out a gold, and the 7v7 team who dominated with an undefeated record and also taking home the gold.
You all are an inspiration to what can be accomplished with hard work, dedication and camaraderie!
With that being said we also need to shout out the coaches and volunteers who make this all possible. It starts with the Program Head/Head Coach of Individual Skills - Sam and Assistant Coach - Tito. Head Coach of 5v5 - Charlie and Assistant Coaches - Matt and Irene. Head Coach of 7v7 - Walt and Assistant Coach - Grace. They also have Matt and Jack who come to assist at Villanova. We also have to shout out the volunteers who help every practice and at tournaments, Jenny, Jesse and Javier! Without all of you this soccer program could not be what it is for all of these magnificent athletes and we want to give a huge thank you from the bottom of our hearts. This weekend we walked away with hearts that were over filling.
If you made it to the end of this, please consider volunteering for your local Special Olympics programs. They offer sports for every season. I know we've had a few people reaching out and making a commitment to sign up. When people get into Special Olympics, it is almost always assumed they are going to be making an impact on the athletes in the community but we will assure you, they will be the ones making an impact on you.
The Supporters Shield’s time in Miami has come to an end.
Over the last year, we’ve had the incredible honor of bringing the Shield through the heart of our city; from stadiums and watch parties to local gems and community pillars. The journey meant everything to us, and we didn’t take the privilege lightly.
We want to give a huge congratulations to the @philaunion , @sonsofben , and the @doopindelinquents on earning this year’s Shield. Meeting all of you proved that in great hands, and we know you’ll carry it with pride.
This will be the final cross-post from us to the @officialsupportersshield account, closing out the Miami leg of its travels.
That said, we’ve still got a few more moments left to share from its time here; so we’ll keep posting leftover photos and memories until the content runs out.
Thank you for letting us be part of this chapter. We’ll never forget it. 🛡️💗🖤
-Signed the Miami Shield Collective
The Supporters Shield made its way to Vice City 1896’s watch party a few weeks ago, paying a visit to one of the most passionate and influential supporter groups in Inter Miami’s culture. Known for their nonstop chants, drums, and presence in the heart of the North Stand, Vice City has been bringing the noise since day one.
Vice City 1896 has been there since day one, setting the tone and building the kind of supporter culture South Florida can be proud of. From the beginning, they’ve brought the songs, the style, and the energy that’s helped give Inter Miami its identity. Whether in the stands or at a watch party like this one, they’ve done an incredible job making fútbol feel like home here.
Bringing the Shield into their space wasn’t just a moment to celebrate, it was a way of honoring the people who pour their heart into the club every single matchday.
#MiamiThroughTheShield, 7th Edition
The Supporters Shield made a meaningful stop at Little Haiti FC, a club that embodies the spirit of Miami’s fútbol community. This free, nonprofit program serves over 175 children from underserved families in Little Haiti and surrounding neighborhoods.
Little Haiti FC isn’t all about soccer; it’s about providing opportunities. With a 100% high school graduation rate and over 80% of its participants pursuing higher education, the club has become a beacon of hope and development in the community.
The club’s commitment to inclusivity and growth has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, FIFA President Gianni Infantino visited Little Haiti FC, highlighting its significance in nurturing young talent and fostering community spirit.
Little Haiti FC continues to make strides, competing in the UPSL and offering programs for both boys and girls across various age groups.
The Shield’s visit here is a testament to the profound impact that grassroots organizations like Little Haiti FC have on shaping the future of the game and the lives of those who play it.
What a chill and enjoyable night last night at the @intermiamicf Open Training for Season Ticket Holders! Love seeing this community and fanbase together with the Shield 🖤🩷
#MiamiThroughTheShield, 6th Edition
The Supporters Shield stopped by Alta Vaca Grill, a hidden gem in Davie serving up some of the most authentic Argentinian asado in South Florida. What started as a food truck back in 2019 quickly became a local favorite, with people from all over the tri-county area seeking the mouthwatering aroma of their grill.
Owners Andres & Cristina, originally from Argentina, turned their passion for traditional asado into a full blown restaurant, where every plate tells a story of home, culture, and the love of good food. Their son was once an active member of one of La Familia’s supporter groups, bringing the same energy and passion to the stands that his family brings to the grill. Now, he’s focused on helping grow the family business, making sure every customer leaves as happy as an Argentinian after the 2022 World Cup win.
From perfectly grilled steaks to crispy empanadas, every bite at Alta Vaca feels like a trip to Buenos Aires, without the plane ticket.
#MiamiThroughTheShield, 5th Edition
For Saint. Patricks Day; @siegemiami went out with The MLS Supporters Shield and made a stop at Mickey Byrne’s Irish Pub, one of Broward County’s most beloved local bars. Tucked into the heart of Downtown Hollywood, this spot has been more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s been a gathering place for fans who live and breathe the game.
From diehard supporters to casuals, Mickey Byrne’s has seen it all. It’s where you go for a 7 AM Premier League match, stay for an afternoon Champions League clash, and then lose your voice cheering for Inter Miami at night. The bartenders know their regulars, the conversations get heated over a VAR decision, and when your team wins, you’re celebrating with everyone in the room and outdoor patio, whether you knew them before or not.
As the Shield continues its journey, it stands here as a reminder that fútbol culture isn’t just found in stadiums, but is alive in the pubs, the watch parties, and the communities that come together to celebrate the beautiful game in South Florida.
#MiamiThroughTheShield, 4th Edition
The Supporters Shield made its way to the NEP Production Hub in South Florida, where the real magic behind MLS broadcasts happens. From the field to our screens, it’s because of the hardworking crew behind the cameras, in the control rooms, and on the ground that we get to experience every goal, every save, and every unforgettable moment of the season.
“Our team at @nep_group began supporting MLS broadcasts around the same time the Supporters Shield was first awarded. It’s been an amazing journey helping bring the action to fans year after year, and we’re proud to continue supporting the league as their incredible growth continues.” – NEP Group
The Shield’s journey isn’t just about the players on the pitch, it’s about the people behind the scenes who make it all possible.
Disclaimer: The Supporters Shield’s visit to NEP was made possible due to the relationships built between NEP employees, the MSC, and the fanbase. Major League Soccer was not responsible for nor involved in its appearance at this location
#MiamiThroughTheShield, 3rd Edition
The Supporters Shield visited @manvfat_soccer , a program changing lives through the power of fútbol. More than just a league, MAN v FAT is a community built for people looking to improve their health while staying connected to the game they love. Across Broward and Miami-Dade, they’ve created a space where weight loss and wellness go hand in hand with teamwork, accountability, and, most importantly, camaraderie.
As the Shield travels through Miami, it stands as a reminder that fútbol has the power to unite, inspire, and uplift. Just like MAN v FAT, it represents dedication, perseverance, and the strength of a community coming together for something bigger than the game itself.
MSC members have a group of very special youth players from @hollywoodfc1985 a special moment with the Supporters Shield! Through all the ups and downs, the pain and perseverance, this amazing community will always unite for those who deserve it. Seeing the next generation in South Florida inspired by @intermiamicf ’s success is truly incredible. 🖤🩷
This past weekend, Coach Richard and @soccershotsmiami / @soccershotsbroward were able to bring the Supporters Shield out so the kids could meet it! Seeing the youth in South Florida be inspired by @intermiamicf and their triumphs means the world to many of us! 🖤🩷
Yesterday; @siegemiami and the shield crashed the new Inter Miami jersey launch! It got to be near the Leagues Cup and tons of members of the fanbase were able to take pictures with the Shield! A great day out to celebrate the gorgeous new Euforia kit!
