In a major step toward expanding youth soccer development and accessibility across the U.S., the Premier League has officially launched a community-focused initiative in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Education and the U.S. Soccer Foundation. The announcement, made during a special event at Red Bull Arena on July 25, brings the global soccer powerhouse directly into local communities with a goal to inspire, empower, and uplift through the beautiful game.
This marks the Premier League’s first community program on the East Coast and builds on the league’s growing efforts to support underserved communities across the U.S. through its Premier League Kicks program. Originally developed in the UK, Kicks is a long-standing initiative aimed at using the power of football to connect young people with free, inclusive soccer programming, mentorship, and leadership development.
The launch in New Jersey is more than symbolic. Red Bull Arena—home to Major League Soccer’s New York Red Bulls—was filled with energy as Premier League representatives, government officials, and community stakeholders celebrated the new initiative. Among the dignitaries in attendance were representatives from the New Jersey Department of Education, local school districts, and the U.S. Soccer Foundation. The event included youth-focused activities, player appearances, and interactive sessions that highlighted the positive social impact of sports.
The initiative is being implemented through a partnership with local organizations, bringing no-cost soccer training and mentorship opportunities to kids in Newark, East Orange, and Camden—three cities that have faced historic inequities in access to quality sports programming. These areas will now benefit from both physical resources and community-based outreach driven by the Premier League’s brand and experience.
Speaking on the new collaboration, Premier League Chief Commercial Officer Will Brass emphasized the league’s ongoing commitment to supporting youth beyond the UK: “We are thrilled to expand our footprint in the U.S. and use football as a tool to drive positive social change. With strong local partnerships, we can inspire the next generation both on and off the field.”
This effort is part of the Premier League’s larger international strategy, which has included similar initiatives in cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Chicago. With soccer’s popularity continuing to surge across the U.S., especially with the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, the Premier League’s involvement at the grassroots level is both timely and strategic.
As the initiative gains momentum, the program promises not only to cultivate new talent but also to give young people vital life skills—teamwork, resilience, and leadership—that last far beyond the pitch.
