SHAPE America and U.S. Soccer Foundation Team Up to Bring Soccer to More Schools

We’re partnering with SHAPE (Society of Health and Physical Educators) America to bring the power of soccer to even more kids across the country. This new partnership builds on years of collaboration with state SHAPE organizations and expands our reach to educators nationwide, giving them the tools to bring soccer into their classrooms through our Soccer for Success in School curriculum.

Since the launch of Soccer for Success in School curriculum in 2021, more than 3,000 educators have brought the curriculum to life, integrating the ready-to-use lesson plans, activities, and soccer equipment into their classrooms. Their work has impacted more than 1.2 million kids in districts like New York City Public Schools, Houston ISD, and Chicago Public Schools.

Our partnership with SHAPE will also support our Yes, Coach!™ initiative, which is working to recruit and support 100,000 coach-mentors by 2030. Coach-mentors will be trained not just to teach the game, but to support kids’ well-being and help them build confidence on and off the field.

“We are thrilled to partner with the U.S. Soccer Foundation, an organization that shares our belief in the transformative power of physical activity and play,” said Stephanie Morris, CEO of SHAPE America. “Together, we will amplify the Yes, Coach! initiative, energize our members, and inspire educators across the country to help every student discover the joy and benefits of active living.”

The collaboration will take center stage at the 2026 SHAPE America National Convention & Expo in Kansas City, where educators will experience a hands-on Soccer for Success training at the Kansas City Current facility, participate in a fun Ball Count Challenge with soccer balls later donated to local schools, and hear from leaders in sports and education during a closing keynote on how mega-events like the FIFA World Cup 26™ can inspire kids nationwide.

And this is just the beginning. From back-to-school campaigns to National PE & Sport Week, we’re excited to work alongside SHAPE America to make soccer—and all the benefits that come with it—part of every student’s school experience. Together, we’re helping kids get active, build confidence, and find joy through the game.