Insights from Soccer’s Biggest Summer (Yet)
As the summer soccer season surged forward from continental competition to the Olympics, the Leagues Cup, and an insane slate of clubfriendlies across the U.S., rEv United brought together top soccer marketing leaders for an event unpacking SOCCER’S BIGGEST SUMMER (YET).
Hosted at our Chicago HQ, world-class insights on football culture from an expert panel featuring AC Milan and Nestlé Purina were complimented by music, drinks, food, and even a mini-unveiling of our own rEv United branded kit.
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So what’d we learn?
The event featured a panel of soccer marketing experts: David Monk, Director of Partnerships for AC Milan; Angie Minges, Nestlé Purina’s Director, Partnerships & Events; and it was moderated by Lou Canellis, FOX sports anchor and play-by-play announcer.
TAILORED APPROACHES HELP ENGAGE DIVERSE AUDIENCES
David Monk shared insights on AC Milan’s tailored approaches to engaging diverse audiences, highlighting innovative collaborations, such as with LA-based boutique Pleasures, that link the club to its city’s fashion scene while attracting new, younger fans.
THE YANKS ARE COMING
“The [support] was massive the minute he signed.” Monk said – citing app downloads and kit sales in the U.S. And not surprisingly, Pulisic highlight videos do fantastically on social with the American audience”
AUTHENTICITY IS KEY
Angie Minges offered a behind-the-scenes look at Nestlé Purina’s creative initiatives, including the redesign of St. Louis CITY FC game suites to be dog-friendly. This initiative showcased Nestlé Purina’s commitment to inclusivity and their ability to create memorable experiences that resonate deeply with their audience and the greater St. Louis community.
SUMMER IS SOCCER’S PLAYGROUND
“The soccer ecosystem is dynamic and complex, from grassroots to international tournaments and the coveted summer window,” said John Rowady, founder and CEO of rEvolution. “Brands that connect with fans need to understand these nuances and approach the sport with authenticity and dedication. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2025 FIFA Club World Cup quickly approaching, the next summer windows are primed for impactful brand engagement that can drive your business forward.”
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And about those kits? Since our founding in 2001, rEvolution has been at the forefront of soccer marketing – but this event marked the first time we ever debuted our own kit design, for employees, friends and family of rEv United. The Umbro template features easter eggs that nod to our history – like WORLDWIDE in the sponsor placement, and a number plate featuring a flipped “10,” representing both the archetypal jersey number and our founding in ’01.
”It’s a nod to both our founding and soccer history,” said Kevin McGraw, Sr. Creative Director at rEvolution and rEv UTD. “It symbolizes our enduring connection to the sport and our commitment to its future.”
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To learn more about rEv United, click here.
