See how Rising fans have carried their passion for the club while serving in the United States Armed Forces
Ahead of Phoenix Rising’s Military Appreciation Night match against Lexington SC at 7:30 p.m. (PT) July 4 at Phoenix Rising Stadium, fans currently serving the United States military as well as veterans reached out to share what Rising has meant to them. Below are some of their Rising stories.
Isai Ardon
Branch: U.S. Navy
Rank: Petty Officer 3rd Class
Service: Three years, currently serving
Rising Memory: “My favorite Phoenix Rising game would definitely have to be the 2018 Western Conference Final against Orange County SC. The memories I made on that trip traveling with my family and fans alike on that bus ride, flooding their stadium with a sea of red and watching Rising make the first final appearance in the clubs history.”
Hassan Al-Azawi
Branch: U.S. Coast Guard
Rank: Cadet 3rd Class
Service: One year, currently serving
Rising Memory: “Playing for the U19 Academy in MLS Next and watching the First Team win the USL.”
Kristina Hamm
Branch: U.S. Air Force
Rank: Airman First Class
Service: Six months
Rising Memory: “I started attending with my son thanks to Vettix. After two years of hit and miss games I decided I had to be at every home game, so I became a season ticket holder. I could write a novel about the highlights, but the all time favorite (to date) was the 2023 season. My son and I were fortunate enough to attend the playoffs, Western Conference Championship, then The Championship!!! The icing on the cake was meeting the team at the airport and being honored to hold the cup (before it came home)!
I look forward to every game rain, shine, or oven! Vamos Rising!!”
Marcos Romero
Branch: U.S. Army
Rank: Sergeant First Class
Service: 18 years, currently serving
Rising Memory: “Rocco (Ríos Novo) saving three PKs in a row to win the Championship.”
Want to be featured? Or know someone who needs to be? Submit your Rising story HERE
