New Mini‑Pitch Made Possible Through FIFA World Cup 26™ Legacy Efforts

We came together with the FIFA World Cup 2026™ NYNJ Host Committee at Joseph H. Brensinger School PS 17 in Jersey City, alongside local leaders, partners, students, and families to celebrate the opening of a brand new mini-pitch.

This mini-pitch is the first of 26 coming to the region through our partnership with FIFA World Cup 2026™ NYNJ Host Committee. The event was full of energy and smiles, marking a major milestone in our shared commitment to ensure this year’s tournament creates long-term, meaningful impact for local communities.

From the first kick to the last smiles of the day, we saw the power of soccer to create connection. As the U.S. Soccer Foundation President & CEO Ed Foster‑Simeon shared, “This mini‑pitch isn’t just a safe place to play—it’s a chance for young people to build relationships, connect with caring and trained coach‑mentors, and develop critical life skills.”

This regional initiative will expand access to soccer for more than 25,000 young people through the installation of 26 additional safe places to play, and 1,000 new coach-mentors trained. With a total of 58 mini-pitches across the region, this will help kids living in under-resourced communities improve their well-being and live healthier lives.

Together with our partners, we’re committed to ensuring more kids gain access to safe places to play and the benefits that soccer makes possible, giving them the opportunity to build life skills on and off the pitch.