Press Release

Local library card holders will receive exclusive prices at the Phoenix Rising Box Office, opportunity to “check out” GA tickets while supplies last

Phoenix Rising FC is teaming up with Phoenix Public Library (PPL) and Tempe Public Library to make matchday even more accessible for book lovers across the Valley.

Starting with the home match against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC on August 23, fans who show their library card at the Box Office on matchday can score general admission tickets for just $16. Beginning August 16, Library cardholders can also “check out” a ticket voucher—good for two general admission tickets—from the Phoenix Public Library Bookmobile and at any Phoenix Public Library or Tempe Public Library location, while supplies last (restrictions apply).

“We’re thrilled to team up with Phoenix-area libraries and offer exclusive ticket opportunities to their cardholders,” said Phoenix Rising President Bobby Dulle. “Libraries are cornerstones of their communities, and this partnership allows us to deepen our connection with the Valley while supporting these vital institutions.”

Added Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego: “For over 125 years, Phoenix Public Library has been dedicated to offering our communities access to information, resources, and enriching events. Expanding the unique experiences available to library cardholders through this partnership with Phoenix Rising is another example of the valuable services it provides. This collaboration and community engagement is yet another reason why Phoenix a great place to live and learn.”

On August 16, both Tempe Public Library, Phoenix Public Library Bookmobile and all 17 PPL locations will have four vouchers (each voucher worth two free admissions, restrictions apply) for each of Rising’s remaining seven home matches between August 23 and October 18. Each voucher must be redeemed at the Phoenix Rising Box Office on the day of the match. The $16 library cardholder ticket rate is valid for library card holders of any Valley library system when brought to the box office on match day.

“We’re delighted to partner with Phoenix Rising to introduce their fans to the library and our library users to a fantastic local sports team who really focuses on making connections with their community,” said Tempe Deputy Community Services Director Jess Jupitus.

Fans who are not yet library-card holders will be able to sign up for one when Phoenix Public Library bring its bookmobile to Rising’s upcoming home matches against Las Vegas Lights (Sept. 5) and Oakland Roots SC (Sept. 27) as part of Phoenix Public Library’s annual “Amazing Library Card” campaign, in celebration of National Library Card Sign-up Month in September.

“Phoenix Public Library is excited to enter into this new venture with Phoenix Rising to bring our library supporters easier and more affordable access to soccer experiences.” said Phoenix Public Library Director Erin MacFarlane. “A partnership with Phoenix Rising supports our core mission of supporting lifelong learning, accessibility to information, literacy and life enriching cultural experiences; a win for everyone throughout our communities.”

The Arizona native will join Rising on loan with an option to buy

Phoenix Rising FC today announced it has brought in defender Daniel Flores on loan with an option to buy from LigaMX side Club Deportivo Chivas Guadalajara, pending league and federation approval.

A native of Tucson, Flores, 22, began his professional career in the RSL Academy system (2018-2021), before he made the move to C.D. Chivas Guadalajara in 2022.

“It feels good to be back home, closer to family,” Flores said. “It’s a lot of motivation and a big deal for me to play in front of them.”

Flores made his professional debut in USL Championship play against New Mexico United in September 2020 at the age of 17, going on to make 21 appearances for Real Monarchs between 2020-21.

In Mexico, Flores appeared in 56 matches for Chivas’ U19 and U21 youth sides, scoring two goals. In 2024, the defender made the move to C.D. Tapatío, Chivas’ reserve team in the Liga de Expansión MX, where he nettedtwo goals across 36 appearances. Notably, Flores has appeared in two matches with Chivas’ First Team

“(Flores) being able to come back as an Arizona kid, that means a lot,” Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah said. “We’re looking for him to add quality into our back line. We’re very happy to have him and I’m looking forward to working with him.”

Daniel Flores: By the Numbers
-Born in Tucson, Arizona.
-Attended Cholla High School in Tucson.
-Played youth soccer for RSL-AZ Southern Arizona Soccer Club.
-Joined Real Salt Lake’s academy system in 2018.
-Made 19 appearances for Real Monarchs in USL Championship play between 2020-21.
-Signed with C.D. Chivas Guadalajara in 2022, where he has two appearances for the Senior Team.
-Has appeared in 56 matches for Chivas’ U19 and U21 teams.
-Scored four professional goals, all while in Mexico.
-Arrives in Phoenix after playing over 2,600 minutes with C.D. Tapatío in the Liga de Expansión MX.

Transaction: Phoenix Rising has acquired defender Daniel Flores on loan with an option to buy from LigaMX side Club Deportivo Chivas Guadalajara.

Name: Daniel Flores
Pronunciation: Dahn-yell Floor-ez
Position: Defender
DOB: May 11, 2003 (22)
Birthplace: Tucson, Arizona
Former Club: Club Deportivo Chivas Guadalajara (Mexico)
Height: 5-7
Weight: 150

Araneda made two appearances for Rising in 2025

Phoenix Rising FC today announced it has mutually parted ways with defender Alejandro “Alex” Araneda. The 22 year old made two appearances in all competitions after signing a contract with the club ahead of the 2025 USL Championship season.

Araneda, who previously played under Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah while with North Texas SC in 2022, played significant minutes on trial for Rising in preseason matches against MLS sides San Diego FC, LAFC and Charlotte FC before signing a First Team contract. The defender made his regular-season debut against Monterey Bay FC on May 17 and most recently appeared in Rising’s Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup match against Houston Dynamo FC.

Margaritha netted six goals and contributed five assists in 26 matches with Rising

Phoenix Rising FC today announced it has transferred forward Jearl Margaritha to S.K. Beveren in the Belgium Challenger Pro League for an undisclosed fee. Margaritha, 25, contributed to 11 goals (6G, 5A) in his year-long tenure with the club.

“I’m going to miss the family feeling,” Margaritha said. “Everyone is a family to me here. The way we have built together and started something, we have a goal and that will continue.”

A native of Groningen, Netherlands, Margaritha represents Curaçao on the national stage. He appeared in 26 matches (19 starts) in all competitions for Rising after signing a multi-year contract with the club in August 2024.

“This shows we are a club that when people come and show what they’re capable of, they get a move,” Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah said. “In this instance it’s Europe, which is a great league for (Margaritha) to continue his development.”

Transaction: Phoenix Rising has agreed to transfer forward Jearl Margaritha to Belgium Challenger Pro League side S.K. Beveren for an undisclosed fee.

Montgomery made 19 starts, eclipsing 1,500 minutes in all competitions in his first professional season

Phoenix Rising FC today announced that defender Braxton Montgomery will leave the club to join the Rutgers men’s soccer program ahead of the 2025 Big Ten season.

Montgomery, 18, made his final start for Rising in the club’s match against Orange County SC on July 30. It marked his 22nd appearance for the club in all competitions (19 starts). Initially commited in March to play at Northern Illinois University, Montgomery recently switched his commitment to Rutgers University.

“Braxton as a player, Braxton as a character, was unbelievable,” Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah said. “He was respectful, humble and every day came in doing his best. He can showcase our pathway, as someone who came through our First Team and now moved to the college ranks.”

A Scottsdale native, Montgomery joined the Phoenix Rising Youth Academy when he was 12 years old and signed a USL Academy contract ahead of the 2025 season, allowing him to retain his NCAA eligibility while competing for the club’s First Team. He made his professional debut against FC Tulsa on March 8.

Since that first appearance, Montgomery has gone on to play 1,628 minutes, becoming one of six Rising players to eclipse 1,000 regular-season minutes through the first half of the season.

“Progressing my way through the academy and then playing here has been a dream come true,” Montgomery said. “I’m grateful for the team, the fans, my coaches and I hope (Rising) wins it all.”

Neville appeared in five matches (four starts) for Rising in 2025

Phoenix Rising FC announced today the club has loaned defender Harvey Neville to USL Championship side San Antonio FC for the remainder of the 2025 season, pending league and federation approval.

Neville joined Rising in January after spending 2024 with Timbers2 (MLS NEXT Pro) and a brief loan stint with Sacramento Republic FC (USL Championship). The defender last took the field for Rising’s match against Sacramento Republic FC on April 19, with four of his appearances coming in the first month of the season.

Transaction: Phoenix Rising loan defender Harvey Neville to San Antonio FC for remainder of 2025 season pending league and federation approval

Fans who contribute non-perishable food items between June 2-July 11 will receive voucher for a free sideline ticket

Phoenix Rising FC today announced it will team up with The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Phoenix to launch a two-month food donation drive between June 2 and July 11. Both organizations will celebrate the end of the multi-month partnership with a full-team service event on July 24 at The Society of St. Vincent de Paul’s South Phoenix campus. 
 
“We’re grateful for the chance to support The Society of St. Vincent de Paul and the incredible work they do every day,” said Rising President Bobby Dulle. “Phoenix Rising is proud to support this canned food drive, which is just one way we can join their mission of compassion and care to serve our neighbors across the Valley.” 
 
Beginning June 2, fans are invited to bring unopened non-perishable food items to the Phoenix Rising Box Office, located at 3801 East Washington Street. Those who donate canned goods will receive a voucher for a free sideline ticket valid at any future Rising match this season. 
 
Non-perishable food items will also be collected at the club’s home matches against Orange County SC (June 7) and Lexington SC (July 4). Recommended non-perishable items include canned proteins (tuna, chicken), canned fruits and vegetables, peanut butter, cooking essentials and more. A full list can be found here. 
 
In 2024 alone, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul served over 3.34 million meals through its four local charity dining rooms and received and distributed over 7.85 million pounds of food from its Central Food Bank in South Phoenix. 

“We’re so grateful to Phoenix Rising FC for stepping up to make a difference in their community, especially during one of the most challenging times of the year,” said Emily Radawec, St. Vincent de Paul’s Director of Drives and Partnerships. “Summer brings increased hardship for many families, with kids out of school and utility bills increasing. Each canned good donated will help us keep pantry shelves stocked and meals on the table when our neighbors need it most.” 
 
On July 24, Rising players and staff members will visit The Society of St. Vincent de Paul’s South Phoenix dining room where it will engage with the community by serving that night’s meal, interacting with kids through mini-games and more. The afternoon event will cap off the drive and multi-month service initiative. 

About Society of St. Vincent de Paul Phoenix 
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to serving people in need and providing the community with the opportunity to serve. St. Vincent de Paul Phoenix is the largest council in the country and has been feeding, clothing, housing, and healing central and northern Arizona families since 1946. It operates a network of more than 80 neighborhood food pantries, four charity dining rooms, transitional shelters, family support services, bill assistance and homelessness prevention programming, as well as a charity clinic with medical, dental and wellness care for the uninsured. 

Avayevu finished with a goal and assist as Kah led Rising to its second win of the 2025 season

Phoenix Rising midfielder Hope Avayevu and Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah were named to the USL Championship Team of the Week 10, USL announced today. Avayevu (1G, 1A) played a direct role in each of the two goals Rising scored in its 2-1 win over New Mexico United on May 10 at RGCU Field at Isotopes Park. The victory was Kah’s second as the club’s head coach.

“This group is growing, and you can see the growth every single day,” Kah said following the match. “To come out here and put out this performance is something to be proud of and I hope this will spur the team to use this momentum to move forward.”

Notably, the selection marks the third time Avayevu has been named to the USL Championship Team of the Week so far this season (Wk. 2, Wk. 6). The midfielder’s goal came in the 12th minute from a near-impossible angle. Driving down the goal line from the left side, the midfielder weaved into the box before using his right foot to pick out the bottom corner of the far post.

“It’s always up to us to finish our chances,” Avayevu said. “At that moment right there I just wanted to finish my chance and I did. It was a tight angle, but I managed to squeeze the ball in there.”

In the 62nd minute, Avayevu assisted forward Darius Johnson’s game-winning goal. The pair combined on the left side of the box, with Avayevu using the back of his heel to float the return pass into the path of Johnson charging into the box. With his two-goal-contribution night, Avayevu leads all Rising players with nine points (3G, 3A). Notably, the Ghanaian midfielder has played a direct role in 6 of the 16 goals Rising has scored this season (37.5%).

On the sidelines, Kah receives his second Coach of the Week recognition, and first since Week 5. Notably, Kah has been named Coach of the Week following each of his wins with Rising. He has now received Coach of the Week recognition in three different leagues across North America (Rising, USL Championship; Pacific FC, Canadian Premier League; North Texas SC, MLS NEXT Pro).

Kah and Avayevu will look to lead Rising to consecutive victories for the first time this season when the team returns home to host Monterey Bay FC at 7:00 p.m. (PT) Saturday, May 17, at Phoenix Rising Stadium.

Essengue has five goals in 79 appearances (66 starts) with LA Galaxy II/Ventura County FC between 2021-2025

Phoenix Rising FC announced today it has signed Cameroonian defender Ascel Essengue on a season-long loan from LA Galaxy, pending league and federation approval.

Essengue, 22, signed a first-team contract with the Galaxy ahead of the 2025 season. The Galaxy retain the right to recall Essengue.

The defender recorded five goals in 79 appearances (66 starts) across all competitions with LA Galaxy’s second team (LA Galaxy II, Ventura County FC) in the USL Championship (2021-22) and MLS NEXT Pro (2023-24). He most recently found the back of the net with a precise header against Portland Timbers2 on April 24.

“From day one we liked (Essengue),” Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah said. “We liked his profile and we liked his potential. We thought he could be somebody who could help us and flourish under us, so we’re very happy to have him.”

A product of Kadji Sports Academy, based in Douala, Cameroon, Essengue arrived in the United States ahead of the 2021 USL Championship season where he signed a contract with LA Galaxy II. The defender initially joined the LA Galaxy Academy at the age of 15, before making the decision to return to Cameroon until the age of 18.

Essengue broke out for Ventura County FC in 2024, scoring his first three professional goals and starting in 29 of a possible 30 matches across all competitions. Notably, Essengue completed 94% of his passes (2nd-highest) while his 2,365 minutes in the regular season were the third-most on the team in 2024. Those performances helped the Cameroon international earn a two-year MLS contract.

“My goal in Phoenix is to help the team go forward,” Essengue said. “I’m here to do my best and to protect the back line. I’m happy to be here and think it will be a good experience.”

ASCEL ESSENGUE BY THE NUMBERS:

• Made his first professional appearance against Rising (7/17/21)
• Has been teammates with Rémi Cabral and Hope Avayevu in the past
• Recorded three goals in 30 appearances (29 starts) across all competitions for Ventura County FC in 2024
• Started in 81.9% of matches played for LA Galaxy II/Ventura County FC between 2021-2024
• Completed 94% of his passes in 2024 MLS NEXT Pro season, the second-best completion percentage on the squad
• Played 2,365 regular-season minutes in 2024, the third-highest total of any Ventura County FC player
• Initially joined the LA Galaxy Academy at the age of 15 before returning to Cameroon to join the Kadji Sports Academy
• Made 16 appearances (4 starts) for Kadji Sports Academy (Duoala, Cameroon)
• Signed first-team contract with LA Galaxy ahead of the 2025 MLS season

Transaction: Phoenix Rising FC Signs Ascel Essengue on loan (with right to recall) through the end of the 2025 season.

Name: Ascel Essengue
Pronunciation: ah-SELL eh-SEN-geh
Position: Defender
DOB: April 30, 2003 (22)
Birthplace: Yaoundé, Cameroon
Former Club: LA Galaxy (MLS)
Height: 6-1
Weight: 170

Fans-first deal includes “Goals for Good” charitable giving initiative, exclusive card perks and enhanced matchday experiences

Phoenix Rising FC and America First Credit Union today announced a dynamic multi-year partnership, naming America First Credit Union the Official Credit Union of Phoenix Rising. The collaboration is rooted in a shared mission to connect with local communities and create meaningful moments for Arizona families both on and off the field.

“We are extremely excited to welcome America First as Phoenix Rising’s Official Credit Union,” said Joey Castor, Phoenix Rising Vice President of Business Operations. “Since our first conversation, it was clear that we had a shared commitment to impacting our community and fan experience. Together, we look forward to amplifying those values and creating even more memorable experiences for our fans and the community we serve.”

​As part of the partnership, America First Credit Union will feature on the club’s training tops, launch an exclusive Phoenix Rising Visa® Debit Card and be the presenting partner for the club’s “Out of School” match against Monterey Bay FC on May 17.

​“Our partnership with Phoenix Rising underscores the importance we place on supporting organizations that bring people together and that exemplify the unique spirit of the city,” said Tammy Gallegos, EVP Chief Strategic Engagement Officer at America First Credit Union. “We look forward to being a part of an exciting season which we know will bring so much joy to fans and to the community alike.” 

​Unique to the partnership is “Goals for Good,” an original initiative whereby America First Credit Union will make a monetary donation to one of Rising’s partner charities for every goal scored by a Rising player in the 2025 season. The program brings the spirit of the game beyond the field, turning every goal into meaningful impact for families, neighborhoods and causes across the Valley.

​Additionally, America First Credit Union will be the official partner of Phoenix Rising Member Cards. Brand new in 2025, the cards can be used in-stadium for exclusive member discounts at concessions as well as in the team store.

Together, America First Credit Union and Phoenix Rising FC are setting the stage for a partnership driven by purpose, connection, and community pride. 

ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION
Since its humble beginnings in 1939, America First Credit Union has grown from a single branch serving military personnel and federal employees into one of the strongest and most progressive credit unions in the country. The credit union is the largest in Utah and has 114 locations across Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. It is also the fifth-largest credit union in America with more than 1.4 million members, and the sixth largest in assets with more than $22 billion. America First Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution dedicated to building communities and helping members do more with their money. Learn more at americafirst.com.