Student-athletes from low-income households are often forced to abandon their love of the game at an early age. Studies show that high schoolers from low-income homes quit organized sports at six times the rate as high-income households.

GCN exists to put an end to this statistic through providing increased funding opportunities so all can play.

The growth of soccer in the USA is limited by socioeconomic disparities.

This country’s pay-to-play model often prevents passionate student-athletes from continuing in the sport. Children from low-income households are more likely to engage in sports like tackle football and basketball, while high-income families have access to a wider variety of sports such as soccer, field hockey, and lacrosse.

GCN aims to grow the beautiful game through increasing access to the sport one athlete at a time.

We appreciate that the pay-to-play model provides access to quality training facilities and coaching.

GCN intends on developing this model through providing increased access to funding so that these opportunities are accessible to all.

Studies suggest that sports performance in youth can be predicted by social class rather than talent. Low-income student -athletes are most affected by stress, finances, and a lack of game/practice time. GCN aims to ease these barriers and provide increased opportunities to participate.

Above all, soccer is a team sport that cultivates a sense of self-worth and belonging. The soccer pitch is where student-athletes can express themselves and learn essential life skills, such as: discipline, teamwork, and hard-work.