ACAP DC builds momentum ahead of World Cup with first Croatian Heritage Night at D.C. United

On April 25, the Association of Croatian American Professionals DC Chapter hosted its first Croatian Heritage Night with D.C. United at Audi Field, marking a significant expansion of its efforts to bring the Croatian American community together through major league sports.

Building on the success of previous Croatian Heritage Nights with the Washington Wizards, this event marks a new chapter for ACAP DC, expanding into Major League Soccer as part of a broader effort to partner with additional professional teams and reach wider audiences.

Despite Washington, D.C. being a smaller Croatian diaspora hub compared to cities such as Chicago, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh, ACAP DC has consistently demonstrated strong turnout, particularly around major sporting moments.

During past World Cup watch parties, attendees have traveled from across the region, including Richmond and Philadelphia, showing how sports can bring the Croatian American community together across distances.

Sports continue to serve as one of the most effective ways to foster connection, and ACAP DC is already preparing for what comes next.

In partnership with Hrvatska Ura (HURA), the chapter is planning a series of World Cup watch parties in Washington, D.C., continuing a growing tradition that has consistently drawn some of the largest Croatian community gatherings in the region.

Earlier this year, ACAP DC hosted a Croatian Heritage Night with the Washington Wizards that further demonstrated the appeal of these events.

The evening included an exclusive meet and greet with Ivica Zubac, who was then playing for the Los Angeles Clippers, early access to watch warmups, and a special on-court experience where select attendees welcomed the Wizards before tipoff.

Guests also received custom Croatian-themed Wizards Hawaiian shirts, and the event served as a fundraiser supporting the ACAP Foundation.

The April 25 match was strategically selected to coincide with a visit from Orlando City SC, which features Croatian National Team player Marco Pašalić.

Although Pašalić was sidelined due to an injury sustained the week prior, the turnout remained strong, reinforcing that the evening was about connection and shared identity beyond any single player appearance.

The evening also included a diplomatic presence, with Ambassador Pjer Šimunović in attendance alongside Phil Berquist, Croatian Honorary Consul in Houston.

Both were welcomed by Danita Johnson, President of D.C. United, and Andrew Seybolt, Account Executive at D.C. United. As part of the program, Ambassador Šimunović was presented with a personalized D.C. United jersey, reflecting the cultural significance of the event.

“It is always encouraging to see the Croatian community come together in such a meaningful way,” said Ambassador Šimunović. “These Croatian Heritage Nights serve as an important bridge between Croatia and Croatian Americans, strengthening our connections and celebrating a shared sense of identity and pride.”

“This event reflects how far our chapter has come and where we are headed,” said Kendall Niles, ACAP DC Chapter President. “Building on our work with the Washington Wizards, expanding to D.C. United with support from ACAP National and the Embassy was a natural next step, and a meaningful way to bring our community together, especially with the World Cup around the corner.”

For many attendees, the evening was about more than the match itself. “My girlfriend and I took the train down from Baltimore knowing Marco would not be on the pitch, but being surrounded by fellow Croatians made it a great night anyway,” said ACAP member Chris Balaban.

“A muscle rupture is no small thing, and we are all wishing him a quick recovery. I cannot wait to see him and the rest of the Vatreni back at full strength for the World Cup this summer. We will be at their match in Philadelphia against Ghana cheering them on.”

Looking ahead, the Washington, D.C. region is set to play an even more prominent role for the Croatian community.

The City of Alexandria has been selected as the training base for the Croatian National Team during the upcoming FIFA World Cup. City leaders, including Mayor Alyia Gaskins, have welcomed the selection, recognizing the opportunity to host one of the world’s top national teams.

Located just outside Washington, D.C., Alexandria’s role further elevates the region as a central gathering point and adds to the excitement building around the tournament.

As Croatian Heritage Nights continue to gain traction across the United States, ACAP DC’s expansion into new sports partnerships reflects growing interest in these experiences.

With the FIFA World Cup approaching and the Croatian National Team set to train in the Washington, D.C. region, the months ahead present a unique opportunity for the Croatian American community to come together, build lasting connections, and celebrate their heritage on a larger stage.