Mount Ephraim-based dispensary Brotherly Bud has become the first cannabis company to sponsor a semi-pro soccer team in the Eastern Premier Soccer League (EPSL).

As part of its new partnership with quickly emerging Philadelphia-area club AC Trilogy, the recently opened shop will have a presence at home games to educate fans and players on uses of cannabis-based products.

Additionally, Brotherly Bud’s logo adorns the team’s jerseys, as well as mentions on social media and in pre- and post-game announcements.

The partners believe the milestone collaboration highlights the evolving landscape of marketing and advertising opportunities for cannabis companies in professional sports.

Opened this past summer by William Sirois with brother Matthew Sirois, the dispensary seeks to differentiate itself from multistate operators by offering customers a personalized shopping experience guided by knowledgeable staff.

In addition to offering a selection of premium cannabis products at competitive places, Brotherly Buds aims to be a hub for community engagement.

Brotherly Bud CEO William Sirois said, “Growing up in the Philly area, my brother and I had no choice but to be sports fans. As soon as we started this business, we knew we wanted to get involved with the community and support local sports teams. We both played soccer growing up, so having a partnership with AC Trilogy is the perfect opportunity for us to combine our passions for athletics and cannabis!”

Up-and-coming team

AC Trilogy recently moved up to the EPSL after an undefeated season in CASA Select, an elite amateur division offering high-level play.

EPSL an affiliate with the United States Adult Soccer Association and the National Independent Soccer Association. The professionally sanctioned third-division soccer league features elite teams from the eastern U.S. Through the league, teams can compete in prestigious regional and national amateur tournaments, like the Amateur Cup and the Lamar Hunt Open Cup.

AC Trilogy Captain Tyler Dautrich said, “We are excited to partner with Brotherly Bud and play a part in normalizing cannabis through sport. Many athletes use various cannabinoid-based products to loosen up before games and to aid in the rest and recovery of sore muscles or injuries. This sponsorship highlights the positive role these products can play in athlete wellness.”

He added that more and more players are becoming interested in THC and CBD topicals to help loosen up before games or aid with muscle recovery, stiffness and cramps after games.

“This has been something a few players on the team were taken advantage of before the sponsorship, and since the sponsorship, more players have been excited to learn about that use case,” he explained.

Teaming up:

• Florham Park Sports Dome scores new partner: Provident Bank
• FC Monmouth reveals new front-of-shirt sponsor