MN United FC | All You Need to Know About Your First Pro Soccer Game
Soccer is often one of the first team sports you play as a child. As you get older, most kids move on to sports of their role models on TV. But that is all going to change because Minnesota is now home to its first professional soccer team. MN United FC.
My experience with professional sporting events goes as far as Baseball. What I knew about the sport was limited to YouTube clips online.
My biggest concern was it going to be an appropriate setting to take kids to? I needed to test it out with my husband. We attended our first game this last week against Colorado Rapids. It was amazing.
This post is a sponsored post. I received discounted admission in exchange for this post. This in no way affects my opinions.
All About MN United FC
The Fans
The first thing I noticed was just how dedicated the fans were. MN United FC main group of supporters are the Dark Clouds. This group is amazing! Their enthusiasm can be a little intimidating.
The Dark Clouds follow a strict code of conduct that includes responsible drinking and having a good time. Any unsportsmanlike conduct is strictly forbidden amongst the group.
From the moment you arrive, you will hear their chants. Their love of the game is infectious and can be felt across the whole stadium.
Off-site, they run a Silver Linings volunteering group with the mission of helping promote the sport of Soccer. For more information about the organization check out The Dark Clouds.
Minnesota United Game Day
Your kids will love it. There is nonstop action. Before the game, hanging out on the plaza you’ll find the team Mascot, a Loon named PK, playing games with the kids.
During the game, the ball is in constant motion. The agility of the players was spectacular. They were heading the balls, twisting and jumping to make some amazing maneuvers.
The players move and contort their bodies in ways I never thought possible. Balls were making it out of the field and promptly returned by the fans. Win or lose, you will have a great time.
What to bring to a Soccer Game?
Swag
Like with any sporting event, you are not required to wear official team merchandise. But it makes the game a little more fun if you do! If you only get one thing, get a scarf.
They are equivalent to a baseball cap in baseball. Everyone has one and they go with everything! Plus it will keep you warm all season long.
You can purchase them at the games or online. Insider tip, the scarfs are about $5 cheaper online, but you have to pay shipping and handling. If you are planning on buying more than one, it may save you a little money to order them.
Bag Policies
MN United FC follows the clear bag policy. You are allowed 1 clear bag no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”, or a 1-gallon freezer bag. You may also carry a small clutch or purse no larger than 6.5” x 4.5”.
They have a bag check available for $10 per bag at Sterling Hall, Midpointe Event Center, and the northeast corner of Allianz Field.
Allianz Field MNUFC Minnesota United st Paul Minnesota MLS by Andy Witchger is licensed under CC BY 2.0
How to get to ALLIANZ FIELD Stadium?
Drive
There are parking lots located all around the stadium. They are pricey, starting at $17 depending on the game. The one thing though is that you can reserve a parking spot through SeatGeek. There is also parking at the State Fairgrounds.
Train
Green Line drops off a few blocks from the stadium. The cost to ride is $3.50 for adults and $1.50 for kids. The rate is good for all day. For more details check out, MetroTransit.org.
Bike
If you are in the city already, one of the best ways to get to the stadium is by bike. They have ample bike racks around Allianz Field. We saw numerous people taking advantage of this including people with small kids.
They also have Nice Ride bike rentals. For those unfamiliar with the program, it allows riders to rent bikes per hour and drop off the bike at any return station. Biking is by far the most cost-effective method of transportation.
Tickets & Discounts
MN United Tickets
Ok, so now the part I’m sure all of you are waiting for, how to buy tickets. Allianz Field has multiple levels of seating and is priced for families. Tickets start at $11 on SeatGeek. There is no bad seat either.