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We are thrilled to announce the completion of the SWB Mural Project, a significant milestone in our journey towards creating a welcoming and inclusive space for newcomer refugee and immigrant youth. Situated at our cherished space on 3700 Eastern Ave, the mural stands as a symbol of growth, resilience, and empowerment—a home for those seeking belonging. The SWB Mural Project, made possible by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council, is the culmination of a deliberate and inclusive planning process, which began last year with the ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 31st, 2023. Full-time staff from all hubs converged to mark this special moment, symbolically unveiling a sanctuary—a home for newcomer refugee and immigrant youth seeking belonging. This journey has been marked by strategic moves and a steadfast commitment to inclusivity, with each step purposefully creating safe spaces for our community. Embedded within this journey is the SWB Mural Project, an artistic endeavor that extends beyond mere strokes of paint on a wall. It's a visual testament to the stories of transformation, leadership, and resilience that echo within the SWB community. Semira, an alumna of SWB, beautifully captured the essence of this space: "It feels like home. Even though I'm an alumna and out of the program, I keep coming back because I like the space. Coming back makes me feel like I am still a part of this program. I want to remain as involved as possible and even work here." Throughout the planning process, facilitated by Ryan Gitonga, SWB Maryland’s Sr. Coordinator who hails from Kenya himself, created space for youth to actively contribute at every stage, from submitting drawings and ideas for the mural to reviewing and selecting the artists’ proposals. From lively art walks to spirited tournaments, each event became an opportunity for dialogue, connection, and shared vision. Together, we painted not just a mural but a collective narrative of hope, resilience, and belonging, with the community becoming co-authors of the mural, infusing it with their stories and aspirations. As the final brushstrokes were added to the mural, we stand on the cusp of a new chapter, where the intersection of sports and art becomes a beacon of hope and possibility for all who pass by. The SWB Mural is more than a piece of artwork; it's a testament to the power of community, resilience, and collective action. It symbolizes the unwavering commitment of SWB to create spaces where youth can not only access resources for their future but also grow, thrive, and find a true sense of home. In essence, the SWB Mural Project is a visual representation of the journey that SWB and its community have embarked upon—a journey of growth, inclusion, and empowerment. The mural stands as a reminder of the transformative power of sport, art and community in shaping a brighter future for all. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Rowan Bathurst for her incredible talent and dedication in bringing our vision to life. To learn more about her work, visit her website rowanbathurst.com

“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: Common-goal.org Soccerwithoutborders.org Chicagofirefc.org *Footage captured by Emily Burdett of the Chicago Fire FC.

“Sport has the power to align our passion, energy and enthusiasm around a collective cause. And that is precisely when hope can be nurtured and trust can be regained. It is in our collective interest to harness the tremendous power of sport to help build a better and more sustainable future for all." - UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed _________ Soccer Without Borders (SWB) is proud to be among the 140+ organizations committed to utilizing the power of sport to support refugees worldwide as members of the Sport for Refugee Coalition. The importance of such a coalition cannot be understated as global displacement continues to be one of the most urgent social issues of the 21st century. According to the latest Global Trends report released by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), over 108.4 million people were forcibly displaced as a result of persecution, conflict, violence, human rights violations and events seriously disturbing public order. This is an increase of 19.2 million people from the previous year. And while children under the age of 18 only account for 30% of the world's population, they make up a staggering 40% of displaced people. This equates to over 43 million young people seeking safety, stability, and an opportunity to find a new home. While solutions to the crises driving displacement must be coordinated and come from the highest levels of global power, this does not mean there is nothing we can do. On the ground and in communities, we must work to align with like-minded organizations to welcome and support those most affected. As leaders in the sports-based youth development sector, SWB believes that positive change comes from the collective actions of many dedicated individuals and organizations contributing their skills, resources, networks, and passions every day. This is why we are honored to be a member of the Sport for Refugee Coalition—a collective movement of organizations dedicated to harnessing the power of sport to create positive, lasting change for refugees around the world. The Birth of a Coalition Birthed out of the first Global Refugee Forum in 2019 and co-convened by UNHCR, the Olympic Refuge Foundation (ORF) and the Scort Foundation, the Sport for Refugees Coalition brings together more than 140 entities (listed here) from the world of sport, civil society, public and private sectors to extend access to sport to refugees and other displaced people around the world. Each of these organizations have made a commitment to “provide sporting opportunities for young refugees,”  this includes pledges to: Promote and ensure access for all refugees, without distinction of any kind, to safe and inclusive sporting facilities Increase availability and access to organized sports and sport-based initiatives for refugee and hosting communities, actively considering age, gender, ability and other diversity needs Promote and facilitate equal access to and participation of refugees in sporting events and competitions at all levels In the period since the Global Refugee Forum, the Sport for Refugees Coalition has provided a platform for members to connect with others involved in sport with and for displaced and host communities, to share and learn from good practices, and acts as a focal point for joint communication and advocacy efforts promoting sport as an essential tool in displacement settings. (Adapted from sportanddev.org) The SWB Impact Every newcomer has a unique story to tell, but regardless of the circumstances that led to their arrival in a new community, they are immediately faced with a vast number of challenges which can often feel insurmountable. This is where SWB comes in. By leveraging soccer, the world's global language, newcomers have the opportunity to plug into a safe and welcoming space where, not only do they have the chance to play soccer, but also find community, build friendships, receive language and academic support, connect to local resources, and much more. Our recently published 2023 Annual Report shed light on the incredible impact SWB has made on refugee and newcomer youth this past year. In Fiscal Year 2023 alone: 82 countries of origin and 46 languages were represented by SWB participants 5,744 newcomer youth and marginalized girls served as program participants 93% of participants reported feeling like they were part of the SWB community 49% of SWB coaches identified as an immigrant, refugee, Nicaraguan, or Ugandan 35% of SWB staff members and coaches were program alumni As we continue to pursue our mission of using soccer as a vehicle for positive change, and now as members of the Sport for Refugee Coalition, we invite you to join us in making a difference. Whether you're an athlete, a coach, a supporter, or simply someone who believes in the power of sports to change lives, you can help us create a brighter future for refugees and newcomers around the world. >> Discover ways you can give to SWB >> Inquire about volunteering >> Learn more about our impact serving refugee and newcomer youth >> Learn more about the Sport for Refugee Coalition

Dear SWB Community, ​ 2023 was a monumental year for soccer and Soccer Without Borders. ​ The year marked the FIFA Women’s World Cup that took place in Australia and New Zealand which, despite time zone challenges, locked up over 1.9 million in total attendance, a record number of 164 goals scored during the tournament (the highest of any World Cup ever), and an international television audience of approximately 2 billion viewers. Further, FIFA, in partnership with several United Nations agencies, created Football United the World, a global campaign that unites us all for: Inclusion, Indigenous Peoples, Gender Equality, Peace, Education for All, Zero Hunger, Ending Violence Against Women and that Football is Joy, Peace, Love, Hope & Passion. ​ In the United States, Detroit City FC launched the Impact League for adult women with a unique focus on social impact aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Additionally, Philadelphia Union midfielder Alejandro Bedoya received the 2023 Audi Goals Drive Programs Impact Award for his partnership with the Philadelphia Equity Alliance, an organization working towards reducing poverty and promoting inclusive and resilient economic growth by advancing collaborative solutions around educational equity, community safety, and growing Black and Brown jobs and businesses. ​ At Soccer Without Borders we are definitively expanding our reach and impact with underserved youth, registering almost 6,000 participants in our programs. Many of our youth self-report significant positive shifts in their own socio-emotional growth and development. Our financial standing is strong and we share typical nonprofit resource challenges like needing and wanting more professional development for staff while also needing and wanting to grow more robust financial reserves. Our Assist capacity building programs are reaching many coaches and creating sea change in gender equity and combating racism in soccer. Our team of nearly 600 full and part-time staff and volunteers expand our ability to deliver our mission every day and we are so grateful for every ounce of individual and institutional support YOU provide. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. ​ 2023 showed us that the world is catching on to the vision and mission of Soccer Without Borders and sharing our worldview that soccer creates a more equitable and inclusive world. This is demonstrated by FIFA’s Football Unites the World campaign, which aligns directly with our work. ​ The 2026 World Cup is coming to North America and I hope that from now, until then, and beyond, we continue to work together and advance global unity, equity, inclusion, for all. ​ In solidarity, Jennifer Tepper SWB Executive Director >> Click here to read the full report!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE BALTIMORE (March 20, 2024) Today, MacKenzie Scott’s Yield Giving announced Soccer Without Borders as one of the Yield Giving Open Call’s awardees working with people and in places experiencing the greatest need in the United States. Soccer Without Borders (SWB), a leader in the sport for development sector, received $1 million dollars. The organization was born of a vision to support all young people to reach their inherent potential and believes in the power of soccer, the world's universal language, to create positive change for individuals, families, communities, and the world. Soccer Without Borders’​ programs are designed for young people to develop agency, a sense of belonging, and the skills to contribute, building social capital and strengthening positive identity development. In March 2023, Yield Giving launched an Open Call for community-led, community-focused organizations whose explicit purpose is to enable individuals and families to achieve substantive improvement in their well-being through foundational resources. “We’re incredibly excited and honored to be awarded such a significant gift from Yield Giving, a true force in the philanthropic space,“ said Erin Cook, Soccer Without Borders’ board president. “This recognition speaks to the hard work and dedication that our entire team brings to providing underserved youth with a toolkit to overcome obstacles to growth, inclusion, and personal success. This recognition and gift will help us reach even more people to engage them in the power of soccer for positive change.” Jennifer Tepper, SWB executive director, adds, “We’re thrilled to be one of six sports based youth development organizations recognized and we would like to extend congratulations to DC Scores, Downtown Boxing Gym Youth Program, New Heights NYC, South Bronx United, and the Sportsmen’s Tennis and Enrichment Center for their impact and hard work in social justice work. I hope that this begins a shift in how philanthropy values sports based youth development and transformation organizations as genuine vehicles that drive systemic social change.” The Yield Giving Open Call awardees were selected based on a number of factors, including a focus on equity, proven track record, community leadership and team capacity. The Open Call received 6,353 applications and initially planned for 250 awards of $1 million each. In the Fall of 2023, organizations top-rated by their peers advanced to a second round of review by an external Evaluation Panel recruited for experience relevant to this cause, and underwent a final round of due diligence. In light of the incredible work of these organizations, as judged by their peers and external panelists, the donor team decided to expand the awardee pool and the award amount. "We are excited that our partnership with Yield Giving has resonated with so many organizations," said Cecilia Conrad, CEO of Lever for Change. "In a world teeming with potential and talent, the Open Call has given us an opportunity to identify, uplift, and empower transformative organizations that often remain unseen.” More information on the Yield Giving Open Call and other initiatives can be found at www.leverforchange.org. ### About Soccer Without Borders Soccer Without Borders uses soccer as a vehicle for positive change in the United States and abroad. Soccer Without Borders combines soccer play and instruction with education and community-building activities in a year-round program model that authentically shifts outcomes. Soccer Without Borders’ impact has been recognized by the global FIFA Diversity Award, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Sports Award, and the Wharton School of Business’ Lipman Family Prize. Learn more at www.soccerwithoutborders.org. About Yield Giving Yield Giving Established by MacKenzie Scott to share a financial fortune created through the effort of countless people, Yield Giving is named after a belief in adding value by giving up control. To date, Yield’s network of staff and advisors has yielded over $16,500,000,000 to 1,900+ non-profit teams to use as they see fit for the benefit of others. To learn more, visit www.yieldgiving.com. About Lever for Change Lever for Change connects donors with bold solutions to the world’s biggest problems—including issues like racial inequity, gender inequality, lack of access to economic opportunity, and climate change. Using an inclusive, equitable model and due diligence process, Lever for Change creates customized challenges and other tailored funding opportunities. Top-ranked teams and challenge finalists become members of the Bold Solutions Network—a growing global network that helps secure additional funding, amplify YIELD GIVING OPEN CALL AWARDEE TOOLKIT members’ impact, and accelerate social change. Founded in 2019 as a nonprofit affiliate of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, Lever for Change has influenced over $1.7 billion in grants to date and provided support to more than 145 organizations. To learn more, visit www.leverforchange.org. Media Contacts Dustin Alarid, Director of Communications Soccer Without Borders dalarid@soccerwithoutborders.org Julie Atherton JAM Collective julie@jamcollective.net | (415) 839-7546

Soccer Without Borders (SWB) is excited to announce that, for the 8th year, we will have a charity team running the TCS New York City Marathon! Applications are open now and the slots are sure to fill fast. Whether you are a seasoned marathoner or setting your sights on your first, consider joining our team of passionate individuals who will sweat for change by making each mile count for the mission of SWB. Each runner's fundraising efforts supports SWB's mission to use soccer as a vehicle for positive change. Each year, we provide free, holistic youth development programs to over 5,000 youth and lead collaborative efforts to advance gender equity and social inclusion through soccer around the world. As a member of Team SWB, you can dedicate your efforts to support a specific SWB hub or initiative, or run on behalf of all SWB programs. All runners who are selected to join the team will receive a guaranteed race entry as well as a number of additional benefits based on their pledge level (visit our website for details). All interested applicants must apply online and we will be accepting applications on a rolling basis. MARATHON DATE: November 3, 2024 MANDATORY TEAM MEETING: June 20, 2024 12:00 pm ET ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS (on a rolling basis) IMPORTANT LINKS >> SWB Marathon Information >> SWB Marathon Application >> 2024 TCS New York City Marathon QUESTIONS? Contact Sophie Goethals at sgoethals@soccerwithoutborders.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Soccer Without Borders, Common Goal, and Positive Coaching Alliance Forge a Partnership for Switch the Pitch Chicago, 2024 — Soccer Without Borders (SWB) and Common Goal, through their Switch the Pitch (STP) program, proudly announce their collaborative partnership with Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA), a national nonprofit dedicated to fostering positive character-building sports experiences for youth and high school athletes. The innovative partnership empowers STP with access to PCA's extensive training resources, including live group workshops, online courses, and supplementary materials. These resources cover coaching techniques, guidance for sports parents, development for student-athletes, and administration support. PCA's commitment to a positive youth sports experience aligns seamlessly with the goals of the collaborating organizations. SWB is an international organization using soccer to create positive social change. They value authenticity and equity—taking a whole-person approach to youth development. SWB’s trauma-informed coaching, coupled with evidence-based programming, establishes safe spaces through soccer, addressing and reducing barriers to participation. This approach led to the creation of STP. Interactive and experiential, STP is a capacity-building program designed by SWB in partnership with Common Goal, a global impact movement that leverages soccer’s resources, cultural influence, and core values to drive societal transformation for the well-being of our people and planet while inspiring positive change within the game itself. STP brings together clubs, grassroots organizations, coaches, and young people to advance racial justice and inclusion on the pitch and sidelines. At its core is the "Inclusive Coach" training program, preparing youth soccer coaches with on-field Team Challenges that educate, activate, and facilitate dialogue on topics like racial identity, allyship, activism, and leadership. PCA has partnered with roughly 3,500 schools, districts, conferences, youth sports organizations, and park-and-rec departments to create a Development Zone® culture, with the goal of using youth and high school sports to create a positive youth sports experience. "We look forward to working with Switch The Pitch to create the best possible sports experience for student-athletes,” said Positive Coaching Alliance President Jason Sacks. “We appreciate the district leadership making a positive high school sports experience a priority for all involved, including student-athletes, coaches, and parents. When sports are done right, we know it can be an amazing opportunity not only to strive to win but more importantly, teach life lessons that will stay with our youth long after their playing days are over.” Ryan Walker-Hartshorn, of Soccer Without Borders, is excited to work with PCA. She says, “SWB is thrilled about the opportunity to expand our relationship with PCA and our offerings for Switch the Pitch with their incredible content. We believe in the power of sincere collaboration and can’t wait to see the impacts of our shared efforts towards an anti-racist US soccer community.” Program Manager of Racial Justice at Common Goal, Taylor Green, shares her enthusiasm about the collaboration, "Switch the Pitch is a collective passion project to pursue racial justice in youth soccer. Having the trust, partnership, and resources of Positive Coaching Alliance to elevate our initiative is exciting and more motivation to join forces with organizations who are committed to anti-racism in all that we do." The partnership announcement is met with anticipation from all involved parties. For questions and/or inquiries please contact rwalker@soccerwithoutborders.org or taylor@common-goal.org!

Soccer Without Borders (SWB) is thrilled to announce that Jules Mayele has been named Director of SWB Uganda! An alumnus of the program, Jules has been an integral part of our SWB Uganda hub since 2012 and has since been recognized as a Coaching Boys Into Men Expert Facilitator, Common Goal Youth Council member, Global Changemaker, and more. Originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Jules moved to Kampala at the age of 16. Not only does he come to the role with vast experience from numerous leadership positions across the hub – working as a coach, communications professional, program manager, and much more – he also brings invaluable lived experience as a newcomer to the country he now calls home, allowing him to truly relate to the 450-plus refugee youth served by our Uganda-based hub each year. As we congratulate Jules for his new position, he took time to share some reflections on what the role means to him: Why do you think soccer is uniquely positioned to make a positive impact in the lives of newcomer youth? In 2011, I experienced something I had never imagined or thought of in my teenage years, I had to flee from my home country and seek refuge in Uganda. Upon arrival, life was completely hard and different. With a new and different culture and community here, soccer was the only thing familiar – it was one thing I had in common with the local people. Immediately after joining SWB Uganda, the program's English classes and youth soccer teams, I felt a sense of home again. Soon after, it was a fresh, wonderful new beginning. Playing the game gave me an opportunity and identity that I am very proud of. I believe so much in the power of soccer to affect positive social change, because without it, I wouldn’t have overcome the adversities and challenges I faced during my early days in Uganda including (but not limited to) the language barrier, isolation, lack of routine, and helplessness. Those experiences and opportunities in soccer are what continue to fuel me to want to give back to other disadvantaged young people facing obstacles to growth, personal success, and inclusion. Can you share a little about your journey with SWB? After graduating from the SWB youth program, I volunteered as an English instructor and coach. I became an official staff member at SWB in 2013, and in my new role, I learned to support other young people like me. In my time as a staff member, I have accomplished a lot! In 2018, I became a Program Coordinator at SWB, managing the Education Program and supervising six staff members. From 2019-2021 I actively worked to support female leadership and empowerment through gender equity projects including Women Take the Lead, The Global Goal 5 Accelerator, the Kampala Girls League, and the Uganda Goal 5 Summit. In mid-2021, I also earned my University degree in Human Resource Management from Kampala University with a first-class degree. What excites you most about your new role as Uganda hub director? SWB Uganda’s program model is anchored on youth leadership and development. As a young person attending this program 13 years ago, I owe a big debt to so many. I would like to share my heartfelt gratitude to all the coaches, team leaders like Nick Dreher, Coach Travis, Jill Flockhart, Amy Howard, my staff teammates, and the various program leaders over the years such as Jeremiah Lukeka, Steve Davis, and Raphael Murumbi for contributing and investing greatly to my growth. I am wholly grateful for their guidance, their immense commitment to the mission, and for making space to provide opportunities for youth to contribute and lead. Global displacement hit another soaring record last year in June, with over 100 million displaced. My host country Uganda is currently home to nearly 1.6 million refugees, the majority being children and youth. Youth, and refugee youth more specifically, are some of the most forgotten people in society and often do not get the opportunities they need to heal, rebuild themselves, and achieve their holistic development and growth. SWB Uganda is one of the few spaces in our community where they can do these things. Today, SWB Uganda is entirely local and youth-led; this is a big testament to our mission and values and I am excited about the growth of so many youth who I witnessed in their earliest days as refugees. While they once had almost no means to cope, limited opportunities or local knowledge, today they are the ones driving this robust program and creating an immense impact in the lives of their fellow refugees, newcomers and local youth. I am truly excited and hope to continue supporting and providing chances to fellow refugees and disadvantaged youth and continuing to pave ways for them to meaningfully participate, bring their voices to where they are mostly unheard, encourage them to know and believe they can contribute, take advantage of opportunities to lead, and make positive and sustainable social change in their communities and beyond. Additionally, girls empowerment and female leadership also remain of great interest to me and I am looking forward to supporting meaningful inclusion initiatives that break the systematic, institutional, and cultural barriers limiting women from reaching their full potential. I believe that the inclusion of refugees, women, and girls as leaders is one of the most comprehensive and sustainable ways to improve society. While this is a big task, I am so honored and privileged to be driving this change together with my amazing teammates here at SWB Uganda as well as with the continued engagement of our community and stakeholders. Together, we will continue growing SWB Uganda as leaders in evidence-based youth development through soccer and gender equality throughout the entire region and continent of Africa. While the appointment of Jules as our new SWB Uganda Director is exciting enough, there is even more great news around the hub to be grateful for: be sure to join us in also congratulating Fahaby Kitimbo and Rebecca Abio for being selected to lead SWB Uganda as program managers! Congratulations Jules, Fahaby, and Becky! We’re glad you’re here!

As part of our SWB United: Play It Forward 2023 campaign, we have introduced you to those who began their SWB journeys as participants before becoming youth leaders and eventually official SWB coaches. These incredible team members have demonstrated how soccer can be a vehicle for positive change, and now they are paving the way for our next generations of leaders. Catch up on our podcast-style interviews hosted by SWB Executive Director Jennifer Tepper, special co-hosts, and alumni coaches from across our US-based hubs: SWB Oakland featuring Coaches Ye-Htet, No Roah, and Rafa SWB Massachusetts featuring Coaches Natalia and Edwin SWB Maryland featuring Coaches Aya and Nidele SWB Colorado featuring Coach Shahir

As part of our SWB United: Play It Forward campaign, we are thrilled to highlight some incredible teammates who began their SWB journeys as participants before becoming youth leaders and eventually official SWB coaches! Over the past few weeks, we had some fun, lively, and inspirational conversations with alumni coaches from SWB Oakland, SWB Massachusetts, and SWB Maryland. Next up, we are excited to head over to the Rocky Mountains and shine a spotlight on alumni from SWB Colorado! Recorded live on Twitter (X) Spaces on Thursday, December 21st, 2023, this podcast-style interview was co-hosted by SWB Executive Director Jennifer Tepper and Coach-Mentor Fellow Joe Kroymann and featured alumnus Coach Shahir. Learn how soccer has played an integral role in providing leadership pathways for Coach Shahir, the importance of having positive mentors in his life, and much more.

As we celebrate SWB United, our Play It Forward campaign for 2023, we are excited to share this series of end-of-year blogs centered around the ways that soccer has the power to inspire, unite, and create a more inclusive and equitable world. Visit our Stories from the Field page to read special, staff chosen mission moments, motivating books, inspirational soccer memories, and more! **** Have you ever felt the sensation of being whisked away to another place through the captivating scenes of a film? Whether it’s the enchanting landscapes, bustling cities, or imaginary worlds created on screen, movies have the power to guide our imagination, allowing us to momentarily escape reality and immerse ourselves in new experiences. Soccer Without Borders (SWB) is excited to share a special collection of movies that inspire and motivate our team. This carefully selected list features stories that resonate with the diverse backgrounds of SWB participants. You’ll find stories of perseverance, witness incredible people break barriers, and get a glimpse into the universal impact of sport. We hope these eight films, docuseries, and tv shows bring inspiration to everyone, no matter where they may call home. In “Bend It Like Beckham,” “Home Across Lands,” and “The Swimmers,” characters challenge societal norms and expectations, defying cultural and gender stereotypes to pursue their passions in the world of sports. “Pelada” and “42” delve into the global and historical aspects of soccer and baseball, showcasing the diversity of players’ backgrounds and experiences. These films highlight the universal nature of sports, emphasizing how they have the power to bring people together across different cultures. “Coach Carter” and “Ted Lasso” explore the pivotal role coaches play in shaping the lives of their athletes. These stories underscore the significance of discipline, academic excellence, and compassionate coaching in fostering personal and athletic growth. “Beckham” offers an intimate glimpse into the personal and professional journey of soccer icon David Beckham. Celebrating his humble beginnings, relationships, and the emotional highs and lows of stardom, this series reflects the human side of sports legends. As you embark on this cinematic journey with SWB, may these stories serve as a reminder that, regardless of where we come from, we share a common humanity and the ability to overcome challenges through the power of sport and storytelling. Bend it Like Beckham Directed by Gurinder Chadha (2003) "Jess Bhamra (Parminder Nagra), the daughter of a strict Indian couple (Anupam Kher, Shaheen Khan) in London, is not permitted to play organized soccer, even though she is 18. When Jess is playing for fun one day, her impressive skills are seen by Jules Paxton (Keira Knightley), who then convinces Jess to play for her semi-pro team. Jess uses elaborate excuses to hide her matches from her family while also dealing with her romantic feelings for her coach, Joe." “This is an Indian movie and the reason I chose this movie is because it gave me a picture of whatever boys can do, girls can do. No one believed girls could play football and where she stayed was a strong Indian cultural village so girls playing football was an abomination. But she stood to her decision and she was successful through football which also shows some of the benefits of sports.” -Fahaby, SWB Program Manager Coach Carter Directed by Thomas Carter (2005) "In 1999, Ken Carter returns to his old high school in Richmond, California, to get the basketball team into shape. With tough rules and academic discipline, he succeeds in setting the players on a winning streak. But when their grades start to suffer, Carter locks them out of the gym and shuts down their championship season. When he is criticized by the players and their parents, he sticks to his guns, determined that they excel in class as well as on the court.” "Coach Carter is a powerful film that goes beyond the game of basketball, teaching us valuable lessons about discipline, integrity, and the transformative impact a coach can have on young lives. This movie really resonated with me because of the work we do working with coaches at Switch the Pitch!"- Ryan, SWB Assist Switch the Pitch​ Manager Home Across Lands Directed by John Lavall (2009) “A documentary that explores the journey of resettlement-- it tells the story of a small group of Kunama refugees and how they reestablish their sense of community in their new home in America.” “I love Home Across Lands because it really demonstrates the long and difficult journey that refugee families go through before arriving in the US, but also the true difficulty of the reality they face when they get here. And it brings the global refugee crisis close to home – the people featured in the story are very relatable and could be your own neighbor or classmate.” -Sarah, SWB Program Manager Pelada Directed by Luke Boughen, Gwendolyn Oxenham, Rebekah Fergusson, and Ryan White (2010) “Away from the bright lights and manicured fields, there's another side of soccer. Two players, twenty-five countries, one game.” “In Brazil, the word is “pelada,” which literally means "naked"—the game stripped down to its core. It’s the version of the game played by anyone, anywhere—and it’s a window into lives all around the world. Pelada is a documentary following Luke and Gwendolyn, two former college soccer stars who didn’t quite make it to the pros. Not ready for it to be over, they take off, chasing the game. From prisoners in Bolivia to moonshine brewers in Kenya, from freestylers in China to women who play in hijab in Iran, Pelada is the story of the people who play.” -Sydney, SWB Coach-Mentor Fellow 42 Directed by Brian Helgeland (2013) “In 1946, Branch Rickey (Harrison Ford), legendary manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, defies major league baseball's notorious color barrier by signing Jackie Robinson (Chadwick Boseman) to the team. The heroic act puts both Rickey and Robinson in the firing line of the public, the press and other players. Facing open racism from all sides, Robinson demonstrates true courage and admirable restraint by not reacting in kind and lets his undeniable talent silence the critics for him.” “42 tells the story of two men – the great Jackie Robinson and legendary Brooklyn Dodgers GM Branch Rickey – whose brave stand against prejudice forever changed the world by changing the game of baseball.” -Sydney, SWB Coach-Mentor Fellow Ted Lasso Written by Jason Sudeikis, Brett Goldstein, and Brendan Hunt (2020-2023) “Jason Sudeikis as Ted Lasso, an American college football coach from Wichita, Kansas, who is hired to coach AFC Richmond, an English soccer team. He is frequently ridiculed for his folksy optimism and inexperience with the sport, but gradually wins people over through his kind and compassionate approach to coaching.” "This show gave me hope. Not only because it was created in the first place on a massive platform with well-known actors, but also because so many people love it. That sounds like many other shows...but this one does not allow you to ignore certain realities about our world, and it does so in the most loving, playful ways. Now, I'm sure you can enjoy the show without applauding the subtle messages of anti-colonialism/imperialism (cue Ted and Sam with Ted's army figurine) or healthy masculinity (Jamie's entire 3 season journey) or Keeley's grace and proud ownership of her body when her privacy is violated or The Diamond Dogs male emotional bonding in a LOCKER ROOM or Rebecca's gradual acceptance of her power after an abusive relationship or Sam's activism for refugees and sweet relationship with his father (an example of Black/Nigerian/African intimacy we rarely see in Popular Culture) or Ted's response to Colin coming out to the team or Nate's complicated arc with his immigrant father OR SO MUCH MORE. Again, I'm sure you could watch while ignoring these sometimes subtle but glaringly intentional plugs for inclusion and equity and justice... but every time I watch (and I can no longer count how many times!), that's all I see: conscious love, shameless empathy, and bold choices to push viewers to question their own." -Nora, Director of SWB Assist The Swimmers Directed by Sally El Hosaini (2022) "Two Syrian sisters flee their war-torn home in Damascus, swim for hours in choppy Mediterranean seas to reach Greece as asylum seekers before going on to compete at the Rio Olympic Games." “That movie really resonated with me because of the power and perseverance of everyone. Also because of the relationship of the sisters and how they cared about each other, and helped each other survive both physically and emotionally.” -Grace, SWB Coach-Mentor Fellow Beckham (Docuseries) Directed by Fisher Stevens (2023) "Beckham celebrates his humble beginnings, relationships and the highs and lows of stardom. Beckham called the series 'a roller coaster of emotions.' 'This is the 10-year anniversary of when I retired,' Beckham told Netflix." "I think so often professional athletes are reduced to a form of entertainment in people's eyes and we forget that at their core they are just another human being. This series does such an incredible job of bringing the human aspect of two seemingly untouchable people to the screen. It doesn't shy away from showing the ugly side of sport – a side that the world often hides away so that people can continue to be entertained or make money. It is evidence of how ugly the beautiful game can be but also that those ugly pieces can be changed by everyone involved.” -Mia, SWB People and Culture Coordinator Now that you have some brand new editions to your queue, learn more about: >> SWB United: Play It Forward 2023 >> Our approach to serving refugee and newcomer youth >> Our gender equity programming >> Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at SWB (Editor's note: the views and opinions expressed in the above films do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Soccer Without Borders. Read about the SWB mission and vision here.)

As part of our SWB United: Play It Forward campaign, we are thrilled to highlight some incredible teammates who began their SWB journeys as participants before becoming youth leaders and eventually official SWB coaches! Over the past few weeks, we had some fun, lively, and inspirational conversations with alumni coaches from SWB Oakland and SWB Massachusetts. Next up, we are excited to head over to Baltimore and shine a spotlight on two amazing alumnae from SWB Maryland! Recorded live on Twitter (X) Spaces on Friday, December 15th, 2023, this podcast-style interview was co-hosted by SWB Executive Director Jennifer Tepper and Senior Program Coordinator Ryan Gitonga and featured alumni coaches Aya and Nidele! Learn how soccer has played an integral role in providing leadership pathways for these passionate coaches, the importance of having positive mentors in one's life, and much more.