Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) has partnered with Bethlehem Steel FC as the official jersey partner and medical provider for health care, orthopedic, sports medicine, medical and physical therapy services, the club announced today. LVHN is the club's first Foundry Partner, the premier corporate status for Bethlehem Steel FC.

“This is a historic day for Bethlehem Steel FC and we are honored to announce this partnership with Lehigh Valley Health Network,” said Bethlehem Steel FC Managing Director Rich Searls. “LVHN is one of the most respected health networks in the nation and its commitment to our community aligns perfectly with our vision and values as a club.”

Consisting of five hospital campuses throughout the Lehigh Valley, including three in Allentown, one in Bethlehem and one in Hazleton, Pa., US News & World Report has recognized LVHN for having some of America’s Best Hospitals for 20 consecutive years. LVHN also offers 13 health centers, several primary and specialty care physician practices as well as pharmacy, imaging, home health services and lab services.

The LVHN logo will appear on the Bethlehem Steel FC inaugural jersey and all club apparel. The organization will also provide medical treatment to the players as the official medical provider.

“Providing expert medical care and getting players back on the field faster is at the heart of this partnership,” said Michael Pasquale, MD, LVHN’s Chair of Surgery. “But there’s more to it than that. Keeping both children and adults active is a key step forward in the overall health of the Lehigh Valley. That’s why LVHN sees our partnership with the Bethlehem Steel FC as a very visible way to show the vital role physical activity plays in creating a healthier community.”

Dr. Faisal Al-Alim and Dr. Neil Mathews, both sports medicine fellowship-trained doctors from LVHN, will provide medical care to the Bethlehem Steel FC players from the sidelines at home games. A LVHN certified athletic trainer will also accompany the team for all games, friendlies, scrimmages and practices.

LVHN will also be present at all Bethlehem Steel FC games at Goodman Stadium and will title a home game in which a LVHN representative will take the first kick and serve as the honorary captain.

As an in-hospital promotion, LVHN will offer all expecting parents with the opportunity to welcome their newborns into the Bethlehem Steel FC family. This inaugural membership will consist of a club onesie and a club membership certificate. Bethlehem steel will also provide a first game memento when the new member is able to come to Goodman Stadium to experience his or her first match.

Bethlehem Steel FC will start their inaugural season on Friday, March 25 at FC Montreal and will officially open their doors at Lehigh University’s Goodman Stadium the following week on Sunday, April 3 against FC Cincinnati with a 3 p.m. scheduled kickoff.

Jerseys will be available online at www.bethlehemsteelfc.com and at all Bethlehem Steel FC and Philadelphia Union home games. Bethlehem Steel FC will take on Georgetown University in a friendly at the Philadelphia Union Training Center this Sunday starting at 11 a.m. before the Union face New England Revolution at 2:30 p.m.