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Your Mental Health Matters

Train your mind like you train on the pitch.

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Who We Are

The Philadelphia Union Foundation believes mental fitness is as important as physical fitness.

HeadFirst is our groundbreaking initiative. It is a movement and a resource. We prepare young athletes mentally — not just physically — by building proactive mental fitness habits through the sport you love. We meet you where you are, in locker rooms and classrooms, on fields and phones, to ensure no story is ignored, and no mind is left behind.

Digital Toolkits

We have you covered on and off the field.

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Players

Tackle bullying, anxiety, social media, grief and depression.

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Coaches

Equip yourself to support your team’s mental well-being.

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Parents Icon

Parents

Your playbook for raising a happy, healthy young athlete.

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Mental Fitness Forum

In-Person Event

HeadFirst Mental Fitness Forum 2025

An inspiring daylong event fostering conversations on mental well-being of young athletes — for coaches, athletic directors, club administrators, and parents.

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Puf Kids

In-Person Education

HeadFirst positive mindset training programs

Experts in sports and positive psychology “team up” to teach positive mindset skills to teen players.

Learn More
Puf Bagtag Updated

Join the movement with HeadFirst

Get your team tagged up with free bag tags featuring a QR code that links directly to mental health resources. Help spread the word, support your players, and make sure every athlete carries a reminder that mental fitness matters.

Get a bag tag
Every Story Matters

Every Story Matters Pledge

The Every Story Matters pledge is more than words. It’s a commitment to support our young athletes and communities. Take the pledge — and help change the game for mental health.

Take the pledge

News and Events

Supporting you throughout the year

Get inspired and informed with annual events and in-person and virtual education sessions.

Upcoming
Mental Fitness Forum 2

May 8, 20258 AM to 12 PM EDT

Subaru Park • Chester, PA

Mental Fitness Forum 2025

Upcoming
Union Game Event

May 14, 20257:30 PM EDT

Subaru Park • Chester, PA

Philadelphia Union Foundation Night: Philadelphia Union vs. LA Galaxy

Upcoming
Puf Soccer Player

June 29, 202510:30 AM to 12 PM EDT

Subaru Park • Chester, PA

Positive Mindset Training Day

Our partners

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