Despite Arlington being one of the 10 wealthiest counties in the nation, over a third of our school-age children qualify for the federal Free and Reduced-Price Meal Program. Cost barriers, lack of transportation, unstable homes and foster situations, or other factors prevent many of these kids from participating in the multitude of youth activities available in our community. Too many children don’t even have the opportunity to simply play outside in a safe area after school.

Arlington Soccer Association is bringing soccer directly to over 350 of these kids at their schools. Since 2012, Arlington Soccer has partnered with the Real Madrid Foundation and Arlington Public Schools to deliver an after-school soccer and character-building program for at-risk children. Under the guidance of specially-trained Arlington Soccer coaches, these children participate each season at no cost to them.

Soccer is the hook to get kids excited to come; once they are involved, the program helps them develop the respect, self-discipline, teamwork and sense of self-worth that they need to succeed both on and off the field.

Program locations:

Barcroft Elementary
Barrett Elementary
Carlin Springs Elementary
Gunston Middle School
Hoffman-Boston Elementary
Kenmore Middle School
Key Elementary
Randolph Elementary
Thomas Jefferson Middle School