Street Soccer DC - Sports for Social Change in DC

As a program of Street Soccer USA, the mission of Street Soccer DC Metro is soccer for social change. By providing an environment of structure, belonging, and hope, we aim to get men, women, and youth who are homeless off the streets of DC and on the road to success both on and off the soccer field.

Working with area shelters and service providers to the needy, our sports program provides a multi-tiered approach to the athletic and personal growth of its players.

First, on the field: open practice sessions allow participants to exercise and become part of a supportive community based on trust and respect. We welcome players of all skill levels - view our calendar for upcoming practices and events.

For the driven, a more demanding and rewarding environment of competitive matches alongside our coaching staff creates the opportunity for further achievement. Dependability, camaraderie, and positive reinforcement are central components of our team environment.

Off the field, our players are required to identify short and long-term personal goals and take the necessary steps to succeed. We assist them by working closely with their case managers, coordinating support services as needed and providing personal mentoring. As players graduate into more steady housing and employment or education, we continue to interact and engage them to make sure they stay on track.

The penultimate event each year is the Street Soccer USA Cup, a congregation of the many programs around the country for a tournament that celebrates achievement and teamwork. The players showing the best attitude and desire to change their lives for the better are selected to represent Washington DC at the Cup. Of the hundreds of players that attend, a select few will be chosen to represent the United States in the Homeless World Cup, to be held in Paris in August, 2011.

We believe that eliminating homelessness is a team effort. Help us realize the dreams of our players and supporters! Read about how you can get involved on our home page.

- SSDC Metro