Genesis, U.S. Soccer Foundation, and MLS Players Association (MLSPA) have proudly unveiled a new mini-pitch at the Broadway YMCA on Staten Island, New York. Following the recent opening of a Musco Mini-Pitch System™ in Hollywood, Fla., this project marks the second installation through the partnership between Genesis and U.S. Soccer Foundation.

“At Genesis, we are committed to creating opportunities for local communities that extend beyond our brand,” said Claudia Marquez, chief operating officer, Genesis Motor North America. “We are delighted to continue supporting youth development through projects like this mini-pitch, which will provide a safe environment for children to engage in sports and reach their full potential.”

The grand opening featured children and coaches in a ceremonial first kick, followed by an inaugural scrimmage on the mini-pitch. In addition to playing games and enjoying food from local vendors with their families, participants received commemorative jerseys.

“Having access to youth sports is about so much more than fun and games,” said Ed Foster-Simeon, president and CEO, U.S. Soccer Foundation. “That’s why we are thrilled to open this new mini-pitch with Genesis, MLSPA, and Broadway YMCA because it will give kids more access to soccer and all its benefits. Together, we're creating more safe places to play for children in under-resourced communities that improve their health and well-being.”

The Musco Mini-Pitch System includes a customized, hard-court surface 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 is part of U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Safe Places to Play program, which aims to create 1,000 mini-pitches across the country by 2026. To date, U.S. Soccer Foundation has installed more than 750 mini-pitches nationwide.

"The MLSPA is excited to be a part of the mini-pitch opening at the Broadway YMCA,” said Bob Foose, executive director, MLSPA. “All MLS Players are thrilled to assist in creating another safe place to play for the youth of the communities that they live and work in.”

Through Genesis Gives, Genesis partners with organizations to improve access to youth sports in under-resourced communities. Participation in sports not only promotes physical and mental well-being, but also provides a platform for developing critical life skills such as resilience, collaboration, and teamwork.

“Soccer is a powerful platform that brings families and communities together across languages, generations, and cultures,” said Sharon Greenberger, president and CEO, YMCA of Greater New York. “The YMCA is proud to partner with the U.S. Soccer Foundation to make soccer more accessible to New Yorkers in advance of the 2026 World Cup, and this mini-pitch is an important step forward in those efforts. We are grateful to the MLS Players Association and Genesis Gives for generously funding this exciting addition to the Broadway Y campus, which will help the children of Staten Island to learn, work together, and develop critical life skills.”