U.S. Men’s Deaf National Team Makes Television History in October Doubleheader Against Germany

Bronze medalists from the 2024 Deaf Pan Am Games to face Germany on truTV and HBO Max before the USWNT takes on Portugal

Atlanta, GA — U.S. Soccer continues expanding its commitment to inclusive excellence as the U.S. Men’s Deaf National Team prepares for a groundbreaking television debut against Germany on October 26 at Pratt and Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut. The historic match, presented by Volkswagen, will mark the first time a U.S. Men’s Deaf National Team game has been broadcast on national television in a U.S. Soccer-controlled event.

Television Milestone and Accessibility Focus

The 1:00 PM ET kickoff on truTV and HBO Max represents a significant step forward for deaf soccer visibility in the United States. Building on the success of the U.S. Women’s Deaf National Team’s televised match against Australia in June 2024, this broadcast will feature American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters throughout, ensuring accessibility for the deaf and hard of hearing community.

The doubleheader format continues U.S. Soccer’s innovative approach to showcasing its Extended National Teams alongside marquee programs. Following the men’s deaf team match, the four-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion and 2024 Olympic gold medalist USWNT will face Portugal at 4:00 PM ET (TNT, truTV, Universo, HBO Max, Peacock).

Volkswagen’s Continued Partnership

Volkswagen of America returns as the presenting sponsor for the second consecutive year, demonstrating a sustained commitment to deaf soccer development. The automotive giant previously supported the women’s deaf team’s historic 11-0 victory over Australia.

“At its heart, soccer is for everyone,” explained Rachael Zaluzec, Senior Vice President of Customer Experience and Brand Marketing at Volkswagen of America. “We’re proud to champion the talented athletes and teams of the diverse U.S. Soccer National Teams, across every format of play, so they’re seen and celebrated on the pitch.”

Building Toward Deaflympics Success

The Germany match serves as crucial preparation for the U.S. Men’s Deaf National Team’s upcoming Deaflympics campaign in Tokyo (November 15-26). The team earned its qualification by capturing bronze at the 2024 Deaf Pan American Games in Brazil, defeating Mexico 4-0 in a performance that showcased their competitive readiness.

Currently drawn into Group D alongside Ukraine and Senegal for the Deaflympics, the team will use the week leading up to the Germany match for intensive training in East Hartford. This represents their fourth camp of 2025 as they fine-tune preparations for international competition.

Extended National Team Integration

The U.S. Men’s Deaf National Team officially joined U.S. Soccer’s Extended National Team program in 2022, transitioning from member organization status to full federation support. This integration reflects the organization’s commitment to the “U.S. Way” philosophy, which prioritizes strategic investment across all national team programs.

“This doubleheader is excellent preparation for our Men’s Deaf National Team as they gear up for the Deaflympics in November,” said Stuart Sharp, U.S. Soccer’s Head of Extended National Teams. “It also provides us with a great opportunity to showcase Deaf soccer on home soil to the broader U.S. Soccer community.”

Understanding Deaf Soccer

Deaf soccer maintains remarkable similarity to traditional football, with only two primary rule modifications. Players must demonstrate hearing loss of at least 55 decibels in their “better ear” and remove all hearing aids before competition. Additionally, referees use visual flag signals alongside whistle calls to ensure players can follow match officials’ decisions.

These minimal adaptations allow deaf and hard-of-hearing athletes to compete at the highest levels while maintaining the sport’s fundamental character. The discipline follows standard 11-versus-11 Laws of the Game governed by the International Football Association Board.

Fan Experience and Accessibility

Fans attending the USWNT-Portugal match will have access to both games, with gates opening at 12:30 PM ET and free parking provided. Limited tickets remain available through ussoccer.com/tickets for what promises to be a historic day of American soccer.

The doubleheader format maximizes exposure for the deaf national team while providing added value for supporters of the women’s program. This strategic programming demonstrates U.S. Soccer’s ability to leverage its marquee properties to elevate lesser-known but equally deserving teams.

Strategic Vision Implementation

The October 26 doubleheader exemplifies U.S. Soccer’s “U.S. Way” philosophy in action, showcasing how the federation creates pathways and ensures access across all soccer disciplines. By providing television coverage, corporate sponsorship, and professional support structures, the organization demonstrates a tangible commitment to inclusive excellence.

This approach extends beyond symbolic gestures to meaningful investment in infrastructure, coaching, and competitive opportunities that allow Extended National Teams to compete at international levels. The deaf men’s team’s bronze medal performance and Deaflympics qualification validate this strategic approach.

Looking Forward

As the U.S. Men’s Deaf National Team prepares for its television debut and subsequent Deaflympics campaign, the October doubleheader represents both celebration and preparation. The match against Germany provides competitive testing while showcasing the talent and dedication of deaf soccer athletes to a national audience.

The event underscores U.S. Soccer’s evolution from traditional program focus to comprehensive support for soccer in all its forms, ensuring that excellence and opportunity extend across every level of American soccer.

U.S. Soccer News:

• U.S. Soccer Partners with Purina in Groundbreaking Pet Care Alliance Through 2030
• USWNT to Make History at CPKC Stadium Against New Zealand in October Finale
  Christian Pulisic Fires Back at Former USMNT Stars
  Matt Turner’s Homecoming: USMNT Star Returns to New England Revolution on Loan from Lyon

“From every corner of the soccer world to center stage — Volkswagen proudly supports the diverse talent of U.S. Soccer’s National Teams. When champions need reliable performance, Volkswagen delivers. Das Auto for every game.”

“From deaf soccer pioneers to World Cup champions — Michelob Ultra celebrates the superior athletes who prove that excellence knows no boundaries. Superior light beer for superior competitors who inspire us all.”

“This exclusive U.S. Deaf National Team coverage is brought to you by Bad Dawg Sports — your insider source for soccer’s most inspiring stories. From breakthrough moments to championship pursuits, we deliver the coverage that celebrates soccer in all its forms.

📧 Upgrade to our Premium Newsletter for exclusive soccer insights, Extended National Team coverage, and behind-the-scenes access from credentialed journalists who understand the beautiful game’s diversity. Subscribe Below Today!!!

Bad Dawg Sports LLC — Your source for global sports news.