RAVE Foundation Commits to Building Mini Soccer Pitch for YMCA

Last Sunday, August 24, youth YMCA soccer players experienced the thrill of stepping onto the field with the Seattle Sounders FC, and soon, those kids will have a new place of their own to play. 

During the Sounders’ match against Sporting Kansas City, the RAVE Foundation, the official charitable arm of the Sounders FC, announced its commitment to building a new mini-pitch at the Northshore YMCA, with the generous partnership of the US Soccer Foundation and Delta Air Lines. This gift reflects the RAVE’s mission to provide free playfields and programs that use soccer as a vehicle to inspire youth and strengthen communities.

Recognizing Community Leaders

The night also featured a special recognition for Loria Yeadon, the YMCA of Greater Seattle’s President & CEO, who was honored through the Providence Community Assist program. This program celebrates individuals and organizations who make our region stronger and more equitable by working toward racial and social equity, defending the right to play, protecting the planet, supporting LGBTQ+, and promoting wellness. Loria was recognized at Lumen Field during halftime and presented with a Sounders jersey and commemorative scarf in honor of her commitment to the community.

YMCA Youth Take the Field

In addition to the Community Assist recognition, 15 YMCA youth soccer players proudly wore their MLS GO kit and cheered on the field as the RAVE Community Kids of the Match. Almost 400 additional YMCA families and players were in the stands cheering them on, thanks to complimentary tickets provided by the RAVE Foundation and a special-priced ticket offer to the Y members. 

A New Mini-Pitch at Northshore YMCA

Work is already underway at the Northshore YMCA to bring the mini-pitch to life. Crews have begun heavy lifting, removing planters, grinding asphalt, and preparing the land with compressed rock for proper leveling and drainage. Fresh asphalt will be paved this month, followed by a 30-day curing period before the final installment is completed. This professionally designed field will create a safe, welcoming space for youth and families to gather, play, and build lifelong connections through soccer. 

Join Us for the Ribbon Cutting

The celebration doesn’t stop there. The YMCA of Greater Seattle and RAVE Foundation will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Northshore Y on Saturday, September 20, as part of Welcoming Week. Families, youth athletes, and community members are invited to join us in officially opening this new field and honoring the partnerships that made it possible. 

A Commitment to Play for All

Soccer has the power to connect communities and open doors for youth. Through partnerships with RAVE Foundation, Sounders FC, US Soccer Foundation, MLS GO, and others, the Y is proud to ensure that every child has accessible spaces to play, grow, and thrive. 

Help us create more welcoming, inclusive spaces for youth to play and grow. Learn more about how you can support the Y’s youth sports program here.

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