The purpose of the program is to bring soccer to children who do not have the opportunity to play the sport.  Through soccer the children learn about teamwork, positive communication and they are exposed to organized physical activity.

League Play
Beginning in April and ending in June, each member of the league participates in organized soccer competition. The league is based on a “recreational soccer” format. Each child is required to have sufficient playing time (this time differs depending on age). They are taught everything about the game from the rules to strategy .

Five Minute Fast Fun Food Facts – (F5)
This component is a part of the Use Your Head nutrition program. F5 is designed to teach the participants basic facts about nutrition. At the end of each practice each team is given the same question regarding a nutritional fact. They are instructed to find the answer(s) to the question before the next practice. The questions are designed such that the children will be able to find the answers using the resources available to them. At the beginning of each practice, the children will be given the opportunity to share the information they found. Each correct answer will be rewarded with a small token. The before and after practice activities are designed to be five minutes (each) in duration.

The nutritional facts are centered around a theme (i.e. The Basic Food Groups; Snack Time; The Breakfast Table; etc.) At the end of each theme there will be a group activity to review the information and put it into practice.

At the end of each practice and during each game, the children are given a nutritious snack (usually related to the fact for the week).

Special Events
There are also special events that take place during the league season.

Program Kickoff The program officially begins in late March/early April with the first DC United home match. At this time, the participants have the opportunity to “hang out” with their coaches and other mentors. The kickoff includes a tailgate cookout; free admission to the match; and a “talk” with Eddie Pope.

Nights at the Park During the Major League Soccer Season, DC Program participants attend several of the DC United weekend (home) matches. They have the opportunity to interact with their mentors and other volunteers as well as watch the “professionals at work”

Summer Soccer Daze During the month of the July, league participants will take part in a one day tournament. This tournament is used to decide the league champion; 2nd place team; and 3rd place team. In addition the children have the opportunity to register for a one week soccer clinic which will give more focus to specific soccer skills and game strategy.

Breakaway: A Day in DC This day occurs between late July and early august. It consists of one day (10:00 am to 10:00 pm) in which the NC program participants travel to Washington, DC. Both the North Carolina program and the DC program join each other for interactive educational activities; a picnic/cookout; mini-soccer matches; and an evening at RFK stadium which includes participating in a youth parade; watching a professional match; and having a Q&A session with some of the players including Eddie.

Every year we have increased the number of children who are able to participate in this day as well as the number of volunteers who help to make the day happen. This year, on July 27, we were able to host a record 130 children and 35 volunteers.

September Shootout This event serves three purposes:  1. an awards ceremony in which each child receives a certificate and autographed player card. In addition tournament trophies are awarded at this time; 2. a “back to school” cookout to help the children focus on the positives of education and the important role it will play in their lives; and 3. a school drive distribution in which much needed school supplies are distributed to the participants.