New York City FC today unveiled a new mini-pitch located at Public School 49 Willis Avenue School as part of a commitment made by in partnership with MLS WORKS, the U.S. Soccer Foundation, Southern New Hampshire University and adidas to build 20 mini-pitches in underserved communities across North America. Each new mini-pitch will offer children in these communities a safe place to play, while providing a soccer environment that encourages unstructured play within local communities, supporting the continued growth of the game. Additionally, SNHU will award a full college scholarship to a deserving member of the local community as part of the dedication ceremony.
Following the official dedication, local youth from P.S. 049X and New York City FC players will participate in a small-sided match on the new pitch. After-school programming gratis at P.S. 049X is made possible by New York City FC, which uses the power of soccer to promote health, education and leadership development and creates safe community spaces, where programming is free of charge.
“The 20 for 20 initiative builds on the deBlasio Administration’s priority to increase opportunities for sports and recreation in the City's most underserved neighborhoods. In July, Mayor deBlasio launched the New York City Soccer Initiative to build mini soccer fields across the five boroughs. This is another welcome example of the City and private partners utilizing the power of sports to drive positive health, community building and mentorship outcomes," said Darren Bloch, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City.
