U.S. Soccer and Bank of America Launch ‘Soccer at Schools’ Initiative

Atlanta, GA – U.S. Soccer, through the Soccer Forward Foundation and Bank of America have launched ‘Soccer at Schools,’ an initiative designed to make soccer accessible to every school across the country by 2030. The program was kicked off in Altadena, California, with a special event featuring equipment donations and a soccer clinic with 500 students led by Sir David Beckham and Angel City FC star Sydney Leroux .

Addressing Equity Gaps in Youth Soccer

Recognizing soccer as one of the fastest-growing youth sports, the initiative aims to address critical equity gaps by increasing access to places to play, helping recruit and train volunteers, and promoting physical wellness . According to reports, 67% of parks and recreation departments report not having enough sports fields, courts, or facility space to meet demand, and 82% of community sports agencies face a shortage of volunteer coaches .

Key Components of the ‘Soccer at Schools’ Program

The ‘Soccer at Schools’ program will equip educators, State Soccer Associations, community organizations, and parents with resources such as advocacy tools, PE activities, training, partner-supported programming, equipment, and the Soccer at Schools Starter Kit . The initiative seeks to increase students’ physical activity, social connection, and confidence, even as too sparking interest in the sport among young people .

Partnerships and Support

The program aligns with Bank of America’s Sports with Us platform and leverages the entire soccer ecosystem to create opportunities for growth. U.S. Soccer, with its 120 member organizations across all 50 states, is uniquely positioned to connect schools and communities with the necessary resources .

Expanding Access to Soccer in Communities

Following the launch event in Altadena, California, Bank of America and the Soccer Forward Foundation will host a series of engagements in Atlanta, Charlotte, and Chicago, featuring special guests, equipment donations, and soccer clinics . An official platform for community organizations, soccer clubs, and schools to access support will launch this summer .

Quotes from Key Figures

“Soccer at Schools reflects the power of the soccer community in this country,” said JT Batson, CEO of U.S. Soccer . Sydney Leroux, star forward for Angel City FC, added, “It’s giving kids that same chance to build character and learn those crucial life lessons, while removing financial barriers to the sport” . Sir David Beckham, Bank of America Global Sports Ambassador, stated, “Soccer at Schools is built on that very same approach – that all children should have the support and access they need to succeed” .

Youth Soccer Programs Available in San Diego

The City of San Diego also offers co-ed youth soccer programs, focusing on fundamental skills like ball control, dribbling, passing, shooting, and goalkeeping . Registration is available through Recreation Centers or online at www.SDRecConnect.com. The County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation also offers STEAM-infused soccer instruction with accredited coaches .