A fresh mini-soccer pitch has opened its gates at JHS 62 Ditmas in Brooklyn, joining a growing network of free soccer spaces across New York City. The inauguration marks the tenth pitch in Brooklyn and is the latest step in the city’s ‘26 for 26’ commitment to construct 26 additional sites, building on the 50 pitches already completed in 2021.
The initiative, launched in 2016 with a $3 million investment, was created to provide high‑quality, safe spaces where young New Yorkers can play soccer without cost. By offering free programming, the project aims to foster a lifelong love of the sport while delivering broader social benefits to underserved neighborhoods.
Community Voices
New York City FC CEO Brad Sims praised the expansion, emphasizing that soccer must remain accessible to every community across the five boroughs. His remarks echoed the sentiment of city officials who view the pitches as more than recreational facilities — they are catalysts for youth development and neighborhood cohesion.
Kate R. Smith, a representative of the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City, highlighted the program’s role in extending free soccer opportunities to families and children who might otherwise lack such access. The fund’s involvement underscores a public‑private partnership that blends municipal support with private sector expertise.
A Legacy in the Making
Beyond the immediate health and social benefits, the initiative seeks to leave a lasting soccer legacy for the city. Inspired by the global reach of the World Cup, organizers envision a network of mini‑pitches that not only nurture talent but also strengthen community ties, ensuring that the sport’s future is rooted in inclusive, neighborhood‑based play.
With the latest pitch now operational, the city’s roadmap calls for the rollout of the remaining 26 sites over the coming years. Each new location will be strategically placed to maximize reach, leveraging schools, parks and community centers to bring the joy of soccer to every corner of New York City.