A Community Kick‑off on the National Mall
More than 50 young soccer players converged on the National Mall this weekend, turning the iconic grounds into a vibrant testing ground for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 Final.
The gathering, staged as part of the FIFA Fan Zone, featured a walled‑in pitch where participants took part in 7‑on‑7 mini matches, while also engaging in a series of drills and workshops designed to showcase affordable soccer opportunities for American youth.
Representatives from Visa and Bank of America joined forces with nonprofit groups such as Street Soccer USA, DC Scores, U.S. Soccer and the Soccer Forward Foundation to launch a coordinated effort that blends corporate resources with grassroots programming.
Lawrence Cann, chief executive of Street Soccer USA, emphasized that “affordable and accessible soccer programs are the foundation for healthy development among our nation’s children,” highlighting the event’s mission to broaden participation beyond traditional club structures.
Cristoval Cartar, a 16‑year‑old goalkeeper who has benefited from DC Scores’ mentorship, shared how the organization’s support transformed his relationship with the sport, turning a modest after‑school activity into a pathway toward collegiate competition.
Beyond the matches, attendees created a BofA Fan Band and explored the Soccer at Schools experience, a curriculum that integrates classroom lessons with on‑field play to make the game more inclusive for students across the country.