THE START OF A MOVEMENT: BUILDING THE FUTURE
In 2015, a small group of business and community leaders came together at Federation headquarters (“Soccer House”) in Chicago.
Their discussion? How they could directly help develop soccer in the United States.
The group members did not work in the sports industry. They had not played at the national level. In fact, some of them hadn’t grown up playing at all.
But they had one thing in common: they loved soccer, and recognized that through their own personal time, resources, networks, and energies, they could make an impact on the game they love.
The first U.S. Soccer Development Council was born.
ABOUT THE DEVELOPMENT COUNCILS
Today, there are five Development Councils: four based out of major U.S. cities, Chicago, New York, the Bay Area, and Los Angeles, as well as an “At-Large” Council for individuals living outside these geographic areas. The group counts 100+ members and since its inception, has contributed more than $1.75 million to unique U.S. Soccer programs through personal gifts, fundraising, and community engagement.
Development Councils unite business and community leaders to support U.S. Soccer’s mission by:
Councils host special, high-access events to engage and educate around U.S. Soccer, including this gathering featuring 2x Women’s World Cup Champion and former U.S. Women’s National Team Head Coach, Jill Ellis.
Serving as Ambassadors in their communities. Members work with U.S. Soccer to engage a broad network in support of U.S. Soccer’s programs, teams and nonprofit mission.
Participating in quarterly Development Council meetings with invitations to other U.S. Soccer events. Members learn more about Federation programs, discuss business and sporting topics, and connect directly with staff and leadership.
Driving impact investing. Members contribute a minimum annual financial donation of $5,000 per year (two year terms) to the U.S. Soccer Development Fund and work collaboratively to generate financial support to forward U.S. Soccer’s development programs.
DEVELOPMENT COUNCILS AT WORK
IMPACT
Councils are committed to supporting key U.S. Soccer programs and activities driving the sport forward, with a special emphasis on coaches. Good coaches can impact lives. Great coaches can impact the future of American soccer.
EVENTS
Councils host events and fundraisers to educate, engage and support the soccer community around U.S. Soccer teams and programs. Events provide unforgettable access and behind-the-scenes insights for new and seasoned soccer fans.
ENGAGEMENT
Councils are connecting and building strong soccer communities in their cities and across the nation. Members have the opportunity to recruit and network with fellow business leaders who share their love of the game.
EXPLORE THE DEVELOPMENT COUNCILS
Click on a city photo below to learn more about your local Development Council.
CHICAGO
NEW YORK
BAY AREA
LOS ANGELES
AT-LARGE
ATLANTA
If you are interested in joining a Development Council, please contact U.S. Soccer at bpuchner@ussoccer.org.