Priscilla Diaz
Published on March 08, 2010

ATLANTA, Ga. -- What a feeling one gets watching soccer players play their heart out on the field, yet it is unfortunate some people, especially fans, do not witness the goodness athletes do off the field. Atlanta FC, does an incredible job playing as a team on the field, yet off the field they are devoting their time, talent, skills, knowledge and love into the community and youth.

Jason Longshore, of the Atlanta FC, said the programs goal is to, “Build a foundation for long term success.” Soccer in the Streets started in 1989, and has recently celebrated their twentieth anniversary, a total of one hundred twenty-five thousand youths have gone through this program and currently working with three hundred youth weekly, on average,  with ages ranging from eight years old to teenage high school students.

Participants from Soccer in the Streets receive hands on experience working with Atlanta FC, a source of great motivation, drive and encouragement for the youth in the program.  However, the program does not only assist in the education of soccer, giving youth the exposure that one would only dream of, they also help the youth in their personal and future professional lives. By using soccer as the medium, Soccer in the Streets educates the youth on employability, helping mold positive and self sufficient individuals upon leaving the program. Starting and building a resume, experience working within the community, teaching basic life skills, such as, respect and teamwork.

Jason shared a special moment, when former Soccer in the Streets participant turned national soccer player, Ricardo Clark, came on a rainy day, and wanted to play with the youth. They made a few calls to gather a group of youth, and played a game in a random location for about two hours. “It was the most fun and amazing time for them, as adults, and even more so for the youth,” Jason said.

Atlanta FC, and Soccer in the Streets, helping bring soccer and the community together.