Flint Style Soccer gathered at the Mott Park Clubhouse in Flint this weekend to mark a decade of free youth soccer, drawing families, coaches and local officials into a celebration of community sport.
Foundations of a community program
The program was launched in 2016 by two Flint natives, Steve Wolbert and Enrique Vargas, who saw an opportunity to remove cost barriers for children eager to play soccer.
Since its inception, the initiative has expanded into one of the nation’s largest free youth soccer programs, now serving more than 1,600 athletes across grades one through eight.
Organizers emphasize that every participant receives completely free programming, ensuring that financial constraints never keep a child off the field.
Parent Dan Kusky, whose son has benefited from the league, praised the effort, saying the league has become a cornerstone of neighborhood life and a source of pride for the city.
Looking ahead, Flint Style Soccer plans to deepen its partnerships with schools and local businesses, aiming to broaden its reach while maintaining its core mission of inclusive, cost‑free sport.