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With FIFA teams competing in South Philadelphia from Gold Coast to Iraq — placing jerseys on Rocky and taking in the birthplace of America’s Freedom — the world’s focus is once again on Philadelphia. It’s a familiar position for a metropolis that by 1776 was already a global leader in both politics and commerce.
Aug 9, 2018; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Jordan Mailata (68) runs off the field after a preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Three decades ago — the Philadelphia Eagles surprised the world by hiring a Quarterbacks Coach from Green Bay. What Andy Reid brought to Philly wasn’t just a solid plan to re-build the Eagles. It was the awareness to look for talent not only at every level. He looked for it all over the globe.
Two years before while as Quarterbacks Coach in Green Bay — Reid got into a good conversation with a maintenance employee at Lambeau Field. Over and over with every interaction — the employee told Reid that he had incredible idea for a play. Finally — Andy Reid caved and handed him an index card and let him draw out the play. Before the season was over — the Packers offense ran the play — scoring on the play.
Reid’s sense of looking for ideas from everywhere — still follows the Eagles to this day. It follows Philadelphia as well.
Last week — Villanova signed seven foot three center Sergio Luigi from the Lombardy Region of Italy. Luigi — who initially prepared for NBA Draft and combine but later withdrew. Instead — the 19 year has filed for 2026–2027 NCAA Draft Eligibility and is now a Wildcat.
Back in South Philadelphia — the Eagles continue to use the approach that Reid set in place at the turn of the century to this day. Through the IPP International Pathways Program — the Eagles drafted Uar Bernard from Nigeria in the seventh round of tthe 2026 NFL Draft. They also signed Kenya’s Joshua Weru this spring.
But Philly was far from done with the International Pathways Program. With Australian Native Jordan Mailata now one of the top offensive lineman in all of football — the Eagles invited Gold Coast (Australia) 243-pound Carson Patu — a Rugby Star to Eagles Rookie Mini Camp this past May.
Long after Andy Reid left the Eagles in 2013 — Philadelphia continues to welcome international talent — and not only in summer of 2026. It’s a routine occurrence for a City whose immigrants helped to build William Penn’s Philadelphia into the tourist destination currently being enjoyed by hundreds of thousands.
Long after they leave and the festivities are over — Philadelphia sports will look to welcome talent at every chance that they get — both from near, far, and around the world.
And from everywhere else in between.
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