When the Union took on Swansea City AFC in the team's international friendly, four players made their Union debuts, continuing a trend to develop young talent and give the kids a chance to get game minutes and make an impact on matches.
Auston Trusty and Jake McGuire were the first two to make their Union debuts for the team, as both players were a part of the Starting XI. Trusty had been in four gameday 18s to end the 2016 season, but this was the first time he suited up for the Union in a friendly. Trusty also became the second player ever to go from the Union Academy to Bethlehem Steel FC.