hot off the Press!
Chicago Union/Chicago Union Cares
Joint Press Release - February 14, 2024
PROFESSIONAL ULTIMATE FRISBEE TEAM
LAUNCHES NON-PROFIT TO SUPPORT YOUTH
Chicago, IL (February 14, 2024) The Chicago Union, which plays in the 24-team professional Ultimate Frisbee Association, announces the formation of Chicago Union Cares. Chicago Union Cares is a 501c3 non-profit whose mission is to inspire youth to reach their full potential through the power of ultimate frisbee.
Ultimate frisbee, one of the fastest growing sports globally, is considered an “ambassador sport” because of its unique combination of athleticism, inclusivity, and simplicity of equipment. The Chicago Union is committed to bringing the joy of this sport to all corners of the state, particularly underserved communities, and to supporting efforts to make ultimate an IHSA sport and eventually an Olympic sport. The establishment of Chicago Union Cares is central to that commitment
“Ultimate frisbee is that perfect game — fast-paced, exciting to watch, non-contact, inclusive, and all you need is a disc and indoor or outdoor space,” said CJ O’Brien, team president and owner. “I played football for years, but my heart now lies with ultimate. No other sport has its unique network of men’s, women’s, mixed, and open competition internationally. To be a great ultimate player, you must be athletic, but you must also have integrity. That’s because of this game’s specific emphasis on respecting your opponents and players settling rule disputes. The power of ultimate goes way beyond the field.”
Chicago Union Cares provides clinics, equipment, and competitive play for youth. Its programming ranges from a basic introduction to the game, to offering elite competition opportunities, all on a no-fee or reduced fee basis. Participating youth work with professional ultimate players who are experienced in youth athletic development. The non-profit plans to build a strong pipeline of coaches across the region. It will also sponsor youth to attend Chicago Union games and mix with players.
Chicago Union Cares is led by Mimi Rodman, an experienced non-profit executive. Programming is led by Youth Director Jake Rubin-Miller, a member of the Chicago Union roster. As Rubin-Miller explained, “Ultimate is uniquely predicated on teamwork and has many social and emotional learning aspects. As just one example, players cannot move while holding the frisbee so they must pass to score — ball hogging isn't possible. Any parent should want their kids to develop the great life skills inherent in this sport.”
During the first three months of establishing the initiative, Chicago Union Cares reached over 600 kids. 2024 is dedicated to extending the organization’s reach and deepening partnerships with schools and community-based organizations.
###
ABOUT THE CHICAGO UNION
The Chicago Union is a professional ultimate frisbee team in the Central Division of the Ultimate Frisbee Association (UFA). Founded in 2013, the Team won the Central Division Championship in both 2021 and 2022 and has made the playoffs six times. Website: watchufa.com/union
ABOUT CHICAGO UNION CARES
Chicago Union Cares Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Its mission is to inspire youth to reach their full potential through the power of ultimate frisbee. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Website: chicagounioncares.org
CUC sponsored a team recently at the Lounge of Lizards tournament.