New soccer field at P.S. 94 gives students and families a place to play and connect
The field is more than just a place to play. Through its programming, Street Soccer USA uses the sport as a tool to support youth and families in underserved communities, helping create opportunities both on and off the field.
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As the school year winds down, students at P.S. 94 are still finding reasons to stay active thanks to a new state-of-the-art soccer field from Street Soccer USA.
The field is more than just a place to play. Through its programming, Street Soccer USA uses the sport as a tool to support youth and families in underserved communities, helping create opportunities both on and off the field.
For students like Jawad, the impact is immediate.
"It's like, very inspiring. It's fun! It makes me feel like sometimes confident. You get to play with your, team members, your friends."
School leaders say the field has quickly become a gathering place for the entire community.
"The entire community lit up. We actually use it for academic experiences, carnivals and fairs. It's very wholesome," said Christina Gonzalez, principal of P.S. 94.
The program's reach extends beyond the students currently lacing up their cleats. Ailyn Lopez first joined Street Soccer USA when she was just seven years old. Now 20, she has returned as a coach, helping guide the next generation of players.
"Being the player, and now seeing the players in yourself in many ways, it's kind of like an inspiration for them and for myself to be able to still play the sport but also teach the kids as well," Lopez said.
Street Soccer USA leaders say access to quality athletic space remains a challenge for many young New Yorkers. The organization hopes projects like this one can help fill that gap while building stronger neighborhoods.
"Here in New York City, access to field is very limited. This is a home for them where they can be safe and have fun, to make friends and to build community," said Fernand Grisales, associate program manager for Street Soccer USA New York.
The organization now operates fields in four boroughs, with plans to expand to Staten Island next. But organizers say the goal extends far beyond developing soccer players.
The field is also open to the broader community, creating opportunities for families and adults to come together through the sport.
"Outside of the soccer league that we run for the schools, it's also open for adults, for pickup games. So, it creates something very special for the families. And it also supports for a very strong community," said Ziham Asceanio, project director for Street Soccer USA New York.
For many families, the field represents more than a new athletic facility. It's a place where students can build confidence, friendships and a sense of belonging - one goal at a time.
