Foundation Donates 11,904 Cleats

Over 20 urban soccer programs throughout the U.S. received a much needed gift this month-- a huge box of cleats! The U.S. Soccer Foundation donated 11,904 cleats to soccer groups in need after breaking the World Record for Longest String of Shoes at the 2009 NSCAA Convention. The goal of the record attempt was to raise awareness for the Foundation's Passback Program and provide as many players as possible with proper soccer equipment. Already the shoes are making a huge impact:

"We were overwhelmed by the condition and supply of shoes you provided our organization.You guys have made it possible for [the children] to continue playing and developing as committed, competitive players of the game! I wish I could give a giant hug on behalf of our youth to all those who gave shoes through the Foundation!"
- Kyle Frohock, Director of Ops|Org Development, Ultimate Goal Ministries

"Yesterday our Executive Director came by my facility to see the shoes and trust me when I tell you that the moment was emotional. We simply cannot wait to distribute the shoes to these kids!"
-John Cochran, New Dimensions Soccer (St. Louis, MO)

A ceremony was held at 2:00 PM the America's Center Convention Complex on January 17th to tie the last 5 pairs of cleats and to celebrate the breaking of the World Record. The following representatives had the honor of tying the last pairs of cleats:
- Lawrence Cann, Passback Recipient, Street Soccer USA
- Alex Kehm, Passback Star
- Sarah Pickens, Passback Program, U.S. Soccer Foundation
- Durward Williams, Passback Program, Eurosport
- Rudy Zimmerman, NSCAA

Ways to help:

1) Donate your shoes.

    Box up and send all soccer equipment to the following address:

    Eurosport
    431 US HWY 70-A East
    Hillsborough, NC 27278

**Please note (on the outside of the boxes) the number of cleats that are within each box.

2) Make a donation to provide a child in need with the proper equipment to play soccer.

3) Spread the word! Join our Facebook Group

For more information, please contact Courtney Fischer by phone, 202-872-6659 or email, cfischer@ussoccerfoundation.org .