
An Encouraging Poster Designed by SWB Colorado Participants
Over the past several weeks, we have reflect upon an incredibly impactful 2024 and the ways in which soccer can inspire, unite, and drive us toward a more inclusive and equitable world. In case you missed it, we have previously shared Stories That Moved Us: Handpicked Books by SWB Staff and 2024's Most Unforgettable Soccer Moments.
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Every pass, every goal, and every moment at Soccer Without Borders is about more than just the game—it’s about belonging, growth, and opportunity. Last year, we witnessed incredible stories of resilience, leadership, and friendship across our SWB communities.
From a player translating for a teammate after just one year of learning English to the return of SWB’s first-ever captain, 2024 was filled with unforgettable moments of connection. Join us in celebrating the impact of soccer through the eyes of our SWB coach-practitioners.
Coach Georgie Sees the True Power of SWB Friendships at SWB Bay Area
“Seeing how Gellen (a graduated participant) has supported her friend Mayri by bringing her to practice, making her feel comfortable on the team, and being her overall #1 support. This led to Mayri re-enrolling in continuation school, and Gellen is even going to the school soccer class with her. The class is mainly boys so it is super brave of them to take to the field and represent what girls can do!”
This mission moment highlights the power of friendship, support, and courage. Gellen’s actions go beyond the soccer field—she is not only welcoming Mayri into the team but also encouraging her to take steps toward her education and personal growth. Her unwavering support gave Mayri the confidence to re-enroll in school, demonstrating the life-changing impact of having someone believe in you.
Additionally, their bravery in joining a male-dominated soccer class showcases their resilience and determination to break barriers, proving that girls belong on the field just as much as anyone else. This moment is a beautiful reflection of the strength found in our SWB community, and the transformative power of sports.
First Photo: SWB Alumna Gallen with Coach Georgie; Second Photo: Participant Girls from SWB Bay Area
Beyond the Game: SWB Colorado’s Coach Erin Sees First-Hand the Value of Uniting Youth Through Soccer
“Cross-site HS girls game between our East Denver and North Denver programs. Not only did they play a soccer match together, but they also decorated posters and made friendship bracelets before the game. Mixing teams made it special because the players left with new friends from the other program. It was incredible to see them asking for each other's phone numbers and taking selfies, truly embodying the idea that we are all SWB together even though we are geographically spread apart.”
Coach Erin’s story showcases how soccer can bridge divides, both on and off the field. While the girls came together to play a game, they also engaged in meaningful activities like decorating posters and making friendship bracelets, creating connections that went beyond the sport itself. By mixing teams, they broke down barriers, forming friendships with players from different parts of Denver. The fact that they left the event with new friends and memories highlights how sports can foster unity and a sense of belonging, even in a geographically spread-out community. It’s a beautiful reminder that SWB isn’t just about soccer—it’s about creating lasting connections and building a strong, inclusive community.

SWB Colorado Teams United Together on a Game Day
Coach Carson Sees Participants Transform from Learners to Leaders in Maryland
“A cool moment for me was seeing a participant who was just learning English this past school year, in his first year with SWB, grow to the point where he was translating for another student this past summer. Amazing growth and an increase in confidence!”
Carson’s mission moment truly highlights the incredible growth and confidence that can come from being part of the supportive community we have here at Soccer Without Borders. In just a year, this participant went from learning English to using his new skills to help someone else—a powerful example of how soccer can be utilized as a catalyst for opportunity and encouragement in newcomer communities.
Beyond language, this moment represents leadership, connection, and the ripple effect of youth empowerment through sport. It shows that when young people are given a safe environment to grow, they don’t just succeed for themselves—they lift others up along the way.
Coach Ye-Htet Shares the Magic of SWB’s Full Circle Moments
“This year, we hosted our Alumni Tournament. Watching all the alumni come back and share the field with our current players was deeply moving.
What made it even more special was seeing our very first-ever SWB captain show up to the tournament. He might not fully realize just how significant that moment was, but for us, it was extraordinary.
To witness the very first leader of Soccer Without Borders return and still feel connected to this community after all these years was truly inspiring. It’s a powerful reminder of the lasting impact this program has on the lives it touches.”
Coach Ye-Htet's story illustrates the lasting impact of Soccer Without Borders. Seeing alumni return to share the field with current players is a testament to the deep sense of community and belonging that SWB fosters.
What makes this moment even more powerful is the return of the program’s very first captain. His presence serves as a living reminder of how leadership, connection, and the values instilled through SWB continue to shape lives long after players have left the field. It’s proof that SWB isn’t just a soccer program—it’s a lifelong support system that creates bonds, builds leaders, and leaves an enduring legacy.
First Photo: SWB Founder Ben Gucciardi with SWB Alumnus/First Captain; Subsequent Photos: Throwback Photos of Past Participants.
Senior Program Coordinator, Michael Rendon, Reflects on the Magic of SWB’s First Ever League in Everett, Massachusetts
“Everett Copa America League - Energy and turnout was far greater than expected.”
Coach Michael’s mission moment reflects the power of community and the unifying spirit of soccer – and the energy that surrounds it in Massachusetts’s gateway cities. Despite this being our first ever league based in Everett, the energy and turnout was beyond what we could have ever imagined! This speaks to the excitement, passion, and sense of belonging that the Everett Copa America league created and fostered for a new SWB community site. It highlights how sports can bring newcomer and marginalized youth together and foster meaningful connections. Moments like these show that when a space is created for youth to come together through soccer, the impact can be greater than imagined.
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