For your right to be curious.

Donate

Play Live Radio

Next Up:

0:00

0:00 0:00

Available On Air Stations

Build a transformational philanthropy program for this trusted NPR affiliate.
Seeking a 100% major gift fundraiser passionate about public media to develop relationships with people who support an informed and civil central Illinois.
Hire will have community visibility, many prospects, and professional resources.
Interviews in progress, open until filled. Apply now.

How Ukraine's immigrant community turned Philadelphia into a soccer town

NPR | By Brian Mann

Published June 24, 2026 at 2:59 PM CDT

Long before most Americans paid attention to soccer, Philadelphia had a thriving culture of athletes and fans shaped in large part by Ukrainian immigrants. The sport offers a rallying place for Ukrainians at a time when their home country is fighting for survival.

Brian Mann

Brian Mann is NPR's first national addiction correspondent. He also covers breaking news in the U.S. and around the world.

See stories by Brian Mann