Chicago Union Prepare to Host Beloved Former Player in Battle Against New York Empire

By Elise Gan

Photography by Chris Hurd

CHICAGO — Following last weekend's loss to the Indianapolis AlleyCats, which dropped their record to 1-8, the Chicago Union look to get back on track this Friday against an opponent they have yet to face this season: the New York Empire.

An out-of-division game might not typically draw much attention from Central Division fans, but this matchup carries added significance. The Union will face former star Daan De Maareé, who powered their undefeated run last summer before signing with the Empire this spring. The 2025 UFA Rookie of the Year and unanimous All-UFA First Team selection began his career in Chicago, tallying 43 goals and 28 assists in the 2025 regular season. Now donning Empire black and green, De Maareé's new team currently sits second in the East Division.

The two clubs last met in the 2022 AUDL Championship Game, where New York defeated Chicago 22-14 to claim its second title in three seasons - a game in which the Empire forced 17 Chicago turnovers, a performance the Union will look to avoid repeating.

New York enters Friday's contest coming off a 28-17 win over the Philadelphia Phoenix and will arrive in Chicago well-rested after more than a week off. The Union, following a productive week of practice, remain confident heading into this much anticipated matchup in front of their enthusiastic home crowd in Evanston.

Fans can purchase tickets for the Friday, July 10, game at https://shop.gochicagounion.com/collections/tickets. The game will also be streamed live on WatchUFA.TV beginning at 7:00 PM.