Genesis Gives, U.S. Soccer Foundation, and MLS Players Association (MLSPA) recently celebrated the grand opening of a new mini-pitch at the Hollywood Police Athletic League (PAL) on Wednesday.
The project is part of the partnership between Genesis and the U.S. Soccer Foundation announced at the Genesis Invitational.
During the grand opening event, youth and coaches participated in a ceremonial first kick and played in an inaugural scrimmage. The celebration also offered attendees and their families an opportunity to play games and enjoy food from local vendors.
“Having access to youth sports is about so much more than fun and games,” said Ed Foster-Simeon, president and chief executive officer, U.S. Soccer Foundation. “That’s why we are thrilled to open this new mini-pitch with Genesis, MLSPA, and Hollywood PAL. Together, we’re creating more safe places to play for children in under-resourced communities that improve their health and well-being.”
Mini-pitches are customized, hard-court surfaces suited for soccer programs and pick-up games that serve as community hubs, encourage physical activity, and provide more opportunities for play. This mini-pitch marks the latest development in the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Safe Places to Play program which aims to provide children a safe place to play in underserved communities by creating 1,000 mini-pitches across the country by 2026. To date, the U.S. Soccer Foundation has installed more than 700 mini-pitches nationwide.
“The MLSPA is thrilled to be a part of another mini-pitch opening as we continue our mission to eliminate barriers to entry in youth sports,” said Bob Foose, executive director, MLSPA. “Our player pool is passionate about serving the communities they live and work in, and creating safe places for local youth to play remains a top priority.”
Through the Genesis Gives initiative, Genesis partners with organizations focused on improving access to youth sports among under-resourced communities. In addition to the benefits from physical activity, participation in organized youth sports programs provides children a platform for developing life skills such as teamwork, collaboration, and improved social skills.
“We are thrilled to unveil this new mini-pitch system, a space where our community can come together to foster teamwork, physical fitness, and positive connections,” said Sara Lavenka, president, Hollywood PAL. “This is more than just a field—it’s an investment in our youth, promoting healthy lifestyles and providing a safe place where our youth can develop both on and off the field.”
Genesis Gives
Genesis Gives is a corporate social responsibility initiative from Genesis Motor America. Expanding on the brand’s commitment to the highest standards of performance and its athletic elegance design identity, Genesis Gives supports nonprofit organizations with the goal of improving access to, and performance in, youth sports and STEAM education in under resourced communities. Since 2022, Genesis has donated nearly $1.8 million to support communities across the country.