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“We can’t bury our heads in the sand. We have to be positive, we have to be out there, and we have to be educated. […] It’s not just a soccer job, though – you’re not just a soccer coach, you’re a role model to these kids.” - Gary Lewis, Chicago Fire Football Academy Technical Director
Empathy, appreciation, safety, vulnerability, awareness, and authenticity – these are the focus areas of our Switch the Pitch inclusive coach training series. The latest installment of the training, launched by Common Goal and led by Soccer Without Borders, was held in February in partnership with the Chicago Fire Academy.
Dive into this video showcasing insights from key figures including:
Taylor Green, Program Manager, Racial Justice at Common Goal,
Gary Lewis, Technical Director of the Chicago Fire Football Academy
Laura Warren, Senior Vice President & General Counsel at Chicago Fire FC
Nora Dooley, Director of Soccer Without Borders Assist
Let’s keep igniting change through the power of soccer!
About Switch the Pitch:
Interactive and experiential, Switch the Pitch is a first-of-its-kind opportunity for coaches and youth players to take action to make the game and the world more inclusive and equitable for all. Visit switchthepitch.org to learn how YOU can join the movement.
Switch the Pitch Partners:
*Footage captured by Emily Burdett of the Chicago Fire FC.