April 7 – The World Cup is said to be transformational, and so it is, one small pitch at a time.
In Jersey City, the U.S. Soccer Foundation and the New York/New Jersey Host Committee opened the first of 26 planned mini-pitches, in what they’re billing as a cornerstone of the tournament’s local legacy.
“For too many youth across the region, safe places to play and be active are often out of reach,” said Ed Foster-Simeon, the Foundation’s President & CEO. “This mini-pitch isn’t just a safe place to play – it’s a chance for young people to build relationships… and develop critical life skills.”
Beyond the bricks and turf, the initiative aims to reach 25,000 young people in underserved communities and train 1,000 coach-mentors to run programmes designed to improve physical and emotional wellbeing.
Host Committee chief Alex Nasry said: “Bringing the World Cup to our region is about more than the matches. These mini-pitches will give thousands of young people a safe, accessible place to play… and inspire a lifelong connection to soccer.”
The numbers suggest these pitches get used. According to an NC State study, each one averages nine hours of organised programming and 43 hours of open play every week. More sites are planned to open across New York and New Jersey in the months ahead, backed by local partners.
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