Street Soccer USA, together with the Laurie M. Tisch Illumination Fund and several partners, unveiled the Laurie M. Tisch Illumination Fund Street Soccer Park at M.S. 137 in Ozone Park, Queens, on a bright June morning.
The facility boasts a modular soccer field, energy‑efficient lighting and a refurbished shipping‑container that now houses a learning hub, creating a versatile space that can be used throughout the year.
Designed to foster free play, mentorship and educational programming, the park offers year‑round community engagement, aiming to become a gathering point for families, students and local organizations.
Central to the project is the Play to Thrive initiative of the Laurie M. Tisch Illumination Fund, which seeks to bolster youth mental health and promote equity through sport, reflecting a broader commitment to holistic development.
Pamela Trincado, principal of M.S. 137, said soccer is a universal language that provides connection and belonging for nearly 2,000 students who walk the halls of the largest middle school in Queens.
Laurie Tisch, founder and president of the illumination fund, emphasized the importance of safe, welcoming spaces where young people can play, learn and grow.
A Vision Rooted in Community
The park’s inauguration aligns with preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, positioning Queens as a model for inclusive sport infrastructure that can inspire similar projects across the nation.