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SWB Increases Access to
Quality Free, Fun, and Competitive Play
Access to play isn't a privilege. It’s a right.
At Soccer Without Borders, we believe every young person deserves the chance to play in a space that is free, safe, joyful, and inclusive. Too often, the youth who could benefit most from sport face the highest barriers to accessing it. We are working to shift that balance, challenging systems that have prioritized profit, performance, and exclusivity over fun, growth, and community.​
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SWB operates free leagues, supports other organizations doing this work, and helps sports for youth development programs create lasting impact and/or create quality free, fun and competitive league play to create MORE access to consistent, welcoming opportunities for youth to play and thrive.
How We Expand Access to Play
Increasing access isn’t a one-size-fits-all effort. In some communities, it means launching new opportunities to play. In others, it means strengthening programs that already exist or working alongside local leaders to help new ideas grow. These strategies allow us to stay flexible while keeping youth at the center of everything we do.
Free Leagues
SWB operates free, community-based leagues designed to lower barriers and bring the joy of the game to more youth. These leagues prioritize inclusion, safety, and fun, offering regular opportunities to play, compete, and connect. Each league is shaped by the needs and strengths of the local community, creating space where all youth feel welcome and supported.
Partner Support
We work alongside mission-aligned organizations to help them expand access to play in their own communities. By sharing tools, training, and lessons from two decades of program experience, we support partners in strengthening their infrastructure and deepening their impact. Whether through ongoing mentorship or one-time collaborations, the goal is the same: more youth playing in safe, inclusive environments.
Program Incubation
Some communities are ready to launch new programs but need support to get started. Through our incubation model, we help emerging leaders and organizations bring their vision to life. From program design and coaching tools to operational guidance and mentorship, we offer the support needed to build safe, youth-centered spaces where play can thrive.
Our Approach to Expanding Access
Community-Based
Programs are rooted in local neighborhoods, reducing barriers and creating access where youth already live, learn, and play.
Consistent & Safe
Access means more than just showing up. We create welcoming spaces that are regular, safe, and youth-centered.
Collaborative
We work with other orgs, schools, and communities to strengthen existing programs and support shared goals.
Flexible Models
From leagues to clinics to pop-up events, we use multiple program types to meet local needs and remove barriers.
Shared Tools
We share what we’ve learned by offering play-based tools, coaching resources, and operational guidance to others doing this work.
Dive Deeper
