For many, affiliation with the BABCPHL is driven by a personal connection to Britain. Mark Evans, Vice President of Ticket Sales & Fan Services at the Philadelphia Union, joined for just that reason – it offered a meaningful way to reconnect with his roots. Born in England but raised in the United States, Mark sought to associate with the British business community when he joined the Philadelphia Union in 2009. “With the sport being so important to me growing up, I knew there would be like-minded business folks looking to get involved with the Union when the club was formed,” he recalls. Thanks to former BABCPHL President and Union Season Ticket Member Howard Silverstone, Mark built a lasting professional relationship with the organization that has spanned over 15 years.

Through his involvement with BABCPHL, Mark has been able to introduce members of the Philadelphia transatlantic business community to the sport he loves. “My network has grown thanks to the BABC, allowing me to continue succeeding at the club and expanding the game itself here in Philadelphia,” he says. Membership has played a crucial role in facilitating connections between business professionals and the world of soccer, reinforcing the sport’s status as a global unifier. Mark’s story is an important one indeed, speaking to the ways that international business spans beyond the typical office space.

Among the many events Mark has participated in, those hosted at Subaru Park stand out as particularly memorable. “We have had a couple of tremendous events here that marry the business community with the sporting world. With the backdrop of the Delaware River and the Commodore Barry Bridge, it provides a unique atmosphere outside of the normal business meeting space,” he explains. Another favorite? The British Chip Shop event—an opportunity to enjoy a taste of England while networking with fellow professionals.

As an enthusiastic advocate for both soccer and international business, Mark appreciates the natural synergy between the two.

“Soccer is the world’s game, and the international business community sees it as a little taste of home. It is always an easy talking point when networking, so the ability to do it consistently with the BABC is a huge benefit.”

His advice for those looking to get involved with BABCPHL also stems from home. “My mom always told me, ‘It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.’ Mark puts it simply: “Get involved as much as possible!”

Through his leadership at the Philadelphia Union and his engagement with the BABCPHL, Mark Evans continues his 15-year-long tenure of contributing to the mission of making Philadelphia the ideal place for business, soccer, and home.