EL1 Richmond Flying Squirrels

Soccer Star Oguchi Onyewu to Kick off World Cup at the Diamond

Published on June 7, 2018 under Eastern League (EL1)
Richmond Flying Squirrels News Release


Funnville - Former United States Men's National Team member Oguchi Onyewu will help the Flying Squirrels kick off the 2018 World Cup by throwing out a first pitch before the game against the Portland Sea Dogs on Thursday, June 14. Along with a first pitch, Onyewu will be available for autographs during the game, beginning at 7 p.m. Onyewu's appearance is provided by Onyx Elite Fitness and In-Your-Face Fireworks will follow the game presented by Poe's Pub, Absolute Stone Fox Richmond and Classic Rock 96.5. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m. Onyewu's appearance will be the culmination of a seven-game homestand for the Flying Squirrels, which begins Friday, June 8 against the Harrisburg Senators (Washington Nationals).

Onyewu played professionally in the Premier League in England, Serie A in Italy, and in the MLS with the Philadelphia Union. Most notably, Onyewu was a member of the United States Men's National Team for 10 years from 2004 to 2014. The center-back led the United States in both the 2006 World Cup in Germany and the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Onyewu played in a total of 69 matches for the national team, scoring a total of six goals while also preventing hundreds. The defender scored his first international goal in the 2005 Gold Cup, nodding home the extra time winner in the semifinal against Honduras, and was later named to the tournament's Best XI team. Following the 2006 international season, Onyewu was voted the 2006 Soccer Athlete of the Year. He was the first defender to earn the award since Alexi Lalas in 1995.

Following his playing career, the Maryland native opened Onyx Elite, a personal performance facility focused on helping members achieve their health and fitness goals in a safe, clean and motivating environment. The soccer star opened two gyms, one of which is situated in Richmond, Virginia. Along with personalized training programs, Onyx Elite also provides innovative nutritional support and strategies for its members and partners.

Tickets to Thursday's game or any other game at The Diamond can be purchased here. The Flying Squirrels conclude the current seven-game road trip Thursday with series finale against the Trenton Thunder at Arm & Hammer Park. RHP Chase Johnson (0-1, 2.84) will make the start for the Squirrels against Thunder LHP Ryan Bollinger (3-0, 1.44). Richmond will be back in Funnville on June 8-14.

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