That Time Marilyn Monroe Took the Soccer Field

She captivated audiences on the silver screen, in magazines, and on billboards. But not many people know she had a cannon for a right foot. This week, we look back at the time Marilyn Monroe stepped onto a legendary soccer pitch in New York. Plus, we unveil our exclusive interview film with USMNT star Tim Weah, debrief after a magical soccer weekend in Vermont, and much more.

This week’s stories:

• 🔥 A Campfire Chat with Tim Weah

• ⛰️ The Green Mountain Miracle

• 🍿 That Time Marilyn Monroe Took the Soccer Field

• 🦞 Welcome to Maine

• 🗳️ Poll + Last Week’s Answers

• ➡️ And More

CLUBELEVEN
A Campfire Chat with Tim Weah

It’s not every day you get to sit down with one of the leaders of the USMNT ahead of the biggest moment in American soccer history. Much less in the middle of the woods, by a warm fire, away from any distractions... the perfect setting to reflect on the past and look to the future.

Watch our exclusive interview with Tim Weah HERE, where he opens up about his unseen journey leading into this crucial moment in history, the weight of building a lasting legacy, his unfiltered thoughts on the 2026 World Cup, and what he hopes will come next.

CULTURE
The Green Mountain Miracle

The USL League Two Final might have just been the most consequential game in American soccer this decade. One that historians will surely reference as a turning point years down the road.

This is how things looked in Vermont on Saturday. Thousands in the stands at Virtue Field and thousands more climbing on sofas, shipping containers, and makeshift stands just to catch a glimpse of this game.

When the final whistle blew, it was one of the most beautiful sights we’ve had the chance to witness all year.

Fortunately, we were also able to take the Soccer Bus up to Vermont for this special occasion, and it was unbelievable. We even got a special surprise from a few of the players after the match.

COVER STORY
That Time Marilyn Monroe Took the Soccer Field

This week marks 63 years since the world lost Marilyn Monroe. To this day, she remains a pop culture icon, remembered for her impact as an actor, model, businesswoman, and fashion symbol. What many don’t know, however, is that she also left a huge impact on one particular soccer field. More specifically, on a sports photographer’s face.

Back in 1957, Marilyn Monroe agreed to participate in a ceremonial kick-off at a friendly match between Hapoel Tel Aviv and a US All-Stars team at Ebbets Field in Brooklyn.

It was an unusual event at the time, but it was partly done with the intention of bringing more attention to the sport in an era when American Football and baseball significantly overshadowed soccer.

Marilyn Monroe’s presence stunned the crowd and drew huge attention to the game. She was a great sport during the whole occasion, even repeating the “kick-off” multiple times just for the cameras. Funny enough, during one of her kicks, she smashed a reporter in the face with a thunderous shot, which is honestly impressive considering she was wearing high heels on grass.

It’s also quite fitting that Marilyn’s only documented encounter with soccer happened at Ebbets Field, which, according to some historians, was the site of one of the first televised soccer games in the US back in 1947.

As the country honors Marilyn Monroe this week, it’s worth remembering her small but memorable role in American soccer history. At a time when the sport was largely overlooked, she used her fame to bring eyes to the game, even if just for one unforgettable afternoon.

SOCCER BUS
Welcome to Maine

The Soccer Bus is heading to Fitzpatrick Stadium in Portland this Wednesday for a very special stop on our American Soccer Tour. 

After more than 7,000 miles on the road, it’s an honor to get to bring our traveling American soccer museum to one of the most incredible communities shaping the future of the sport in the country. It’s a stop we’ve dreamed of for months, and we couldn’t be happier that it will be at the first-ever Portland Hearts international friendly. 

If you’re in the area, we hope to see you there! 

CLUBELEVEN
The Supporters Section

Let us know your thoughts on this contentious topic! We’ll highlight your best answers next week.

CLUBELEVEN
Aggregates

Goalie Goal: It’s only happened once before in USL League One. South Georgia Tormenta’s goalkeeper, Austin Pack, scored one for the ages over the weekend.

Book Saucy: Ever dreamed of booking the greatest mascot in American soccer history for an event, birthday party, or BBQ? Well, now you can.

First to the Summit: The new NWSL team in Denver just signed their first-ever player. A perfect match.

Tifo of the Year: Just amazing stuff. 10/10 creativity, no notes.

Sonny California: The former Tottenham star seems to be destined for a move to MLS. Keep an eye out for an official announcement soon.

ENTERTAINMENT
Lucha Libre at Leagues Cup

Absolutely surreal scenes ahead of MNUFC’s game against Queretaro last week.

F1RST Wrestling brought lucha libre to the Great Lawn at Allianz Field in Minnesota for an unbelievable pre-game spectacle.

I think we’re going in the right direction. This is how things looked on the ground.

HEALTH
A Shot of Espresso

She’s baaaaack.

Washington Spirit and USWNT star Trinity Rodman has been out since April due to a lingering back injury.

On Sunday, though, she made her triumphant return. Complete with an incredible stoppage-time winner to jolt the Spirit past the Thorns. Her reaction was everything.

CLUBELEVEN
Your Takes 🗯️ 

Last week, we asked you: Would you rather win MLS Cup as a bench player or win the USL Championship as a starter? Here are some of your answers:

• “Rough one to be honest, but I would pick MLS because even if I don't play in the final, I will have hopefully helped at some point in the playoffs. And trophy-wise, an MLS Cup is much more valuable. Plus, it means I'm good enough to be on an MLS team, which already says a lot. Pd: No hate to USL. Love both leagues.” - Dario

• “Has to be USL as a starter, I mean as a player your top priorities are to be on the field and then next win a championship, so that option is better. Also, USL is so community-driven that winning a championship for any of the teams in the league (especially the best ones) as a starter would probably be an incredible experience. Just look at the scenes in Vermont, and they’re only USL2.” - BD

In the poll, “USL as a starter” finished first with nearly 79% of the vote, while “MLS as a bench player” came in second with 21% of the vote.

UP NEXT
Back Down the East Coast

I could never have thought we’d make it from Orlando up to within just 50 miles of the Canadian border. It felt unreal to be in Vermont with the bus, and aside from a huge thank you to everyone at the club for welcoming us with open arms over the weekend, I’d like to extend an extra special thank you to Lauren, Marisol, and Will for spontaneously joining us on the journey and helping everything run smoothly in Vermont. True legends!

Now, we’re starting our trek back down the East Coast, which will bring some exciting stops over the next two weeks. Stay tuned…

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Have a great Tuesday!

Pablo