Conor Donovan Named Community MVP
December 1, 2023 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Sacramento Republic FC News Release
Following the season, Republic FC also honored those who have been integral to its community impact throughout the year. Conor Donovan was honored as the club's Community MVP for his participation in some of the most impactful programs of the year, from visiting local first responders, active-duty military at Beale Air Force Base, and helping kids on the pitch at youth soccer camps in underserved communities.
Most notably, Donovan featured in the club's public service announcement created in partnership with California First Partner and mental health champion Jennifer Siebel Newsom, advocating for the 988 Suicide and Crisis lifeline - featured on the sleeve of the club's kits to spread awareness of a life-saving resource. His dedication to making a positive impact off the field earned him this well-deserved recognition, highlighting his invaluable contributions to the team's community initiatives.
A Look Back at 2023 in the Community
Throughout the year, Republic FC's Indomitable Spirit extended into the community. From February through November, the club teamed up with local organizations every month to make an impact and give back to Sacramento with the help of fans, partners, and others around the region. From volunteer service weeks, constructing futsal courts for sports accessibility, giving back to organizations involved in tremendous causes and more, the club's reach was widespread. And it's far from done, as the annual Winter Wishlist program collects toys, coats, and other donations to uplift those in need during the holiday season and bring holiday cheer to North Sacramento families.
Following a tremendous 2023 in the community - take a look through some of the club's top moments off the pitch:
Monday, March 13th, the team helped prepare over 150 hygiene kits to the Wellspring Women's Center, in Sacramento's Oak Park neighborhood, that nurtures the innate goodness and personal self-esteem of women and their children.
The Indomitable Club began by honoring a remarkable group, the Cardiac Kids, during Heart Health Night. These 14 exceptional kids raised over $15,000 through a school program focused on staying active and fundraising for heart-related causes in Sacramento.
The Indomitable Club joined Carmichael Recreation and Park District, County Supervisor Rich Desmond, and Over Under Initiative (OUI) to introduce a new multi-sport surface at Carmichael Park. With the "Goalpher" technology for swift underground goal installation, this court marks Republic FC's 11th development since 2019, providing the community a year-round play and gathering space.
Republic FC's front office and supporters - along with midfielder Luis Felipe and goalkeeper coach Ross Cain - joined with the Sacramento community to march in the annual Pride March. Together, the group marched, cheered, and celebrated to show parade-goers that Republic FC is committed to fostering a community that is supportive of everyone, both in and out of the stadium.
Thanks to the generous support of Kellogg's Mission Tiger and San Juan Unified School District, the students of Sylvan Middle School now have a fantastic new futsal court. Republic FC shared its excitement about bringing the first futsal court to a school site - and 12th developed by the club since 2019 - by inviting San Juan students out to kick the ball around with Tony the Tiger.
In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month, Republic FC made a special visit to WellSpace Health to give back to the dedicated employees that operate the 988 Suicide and Crisis Center. Along with defender Damia Viader, the club surprised operators with gifts of flowers, Republic FC gear, and tickets to an upcoming match.
Republic FC players Luis Felipe and Luther Archimede, accompanied by Goalkeeper Coach Ross Cain, ventured into a different football realm in October: Power Soccer. They visited Roseville's Republic FC-affiliated team for practice, immersing themselves by experiencing the game firsthand in powered wheelchairs. This visit unfolded at @TheGrounds, a potential venue the power soccer team envisions for hosting tournaments, aiming to expand the sport and create more competitive opportunities for players.
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United Soccer League Championship Stories from December 1, 2023
- Rhode Island FC Signs Liberian National Team Member - Rhode Island FC
- Conor Donovan Named Community MVP - Sacramento Republic FC
- Go for Goal: Republic FC to Host Open Tryouts Ahead of 2024 Season - Sacramento Republic FC
- Phoenix Rising FC to Bring Back at Least 10 Players from Its 2023 Championship Squad - Phoenix Rising FC
- Memphis 901 FC Signs Veteran Attacker Marlon Santos to Multi-Year Contract - Memphis 901 FC
- Switchbacks FC Sign Midfielder Aidan Rocha for the 2024 Season - Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC
- DCFC Welcomes Women's Impact League to the Fieldhouse this January - Detroit City FC
- Charleston Battery Announce Initial Update for 2024 Roster - Charleston Battery
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