The excitement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup™ is already building in Los Angeles. Last week, the Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee and the Play Equity Fund announced the launch of Grow the Game of Soccer — a free clinic series designed to use the momentum of the World Cup to inspire the next generation of soccer players, coaches, and referees across Southern California.
This community legacy program brings together the region’s biggest soccer organizations — LA Galaxy, LAFC, and Angel City FC — along with Cal South and local soccer partners. Together, they’ll deliver fun, skill-building experiences that foster confidence, inclusion, and a lasting passion for the game.
Clinics That Go Beyond the Game
The Grow the Game of Soccer Clinic Series will kick off Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the Los Angeles City College Soccer Field. The first event is a coaching clinic that introduces a new approach emphasizing holistic youth development — focusing on emotional growth, connection, and community-building, not just soccer skills.
Each participating coach will receive a new “healing-centered” playbook created by the Play Equity Fund, the Center for Healing and Justice Through Sport (CHJS), and Cal South. The goal: help coaches use soccer as a way to support young people who’ve experienced challenges, stress, or trauma, while building inclusive team environments.
Program Highlights
- Youth Clinics – Designed to empower young athletes both on the field and in life through engaging, age-appropriate activities.
- Coaching and Referee Clinics – Focused on leadership, resilience, and understanding how sport can drive youth well-being. Sessions will be led by CHJS and Cal South, official affiliates of the U.S. Soccer Federation.
Community Experiences – Families can expect fun giveaways, player visits, and interactive partner activations that make each clinic an inspiring event.
Building a Lasting Legacy for LA Soccer
“The Grow the Game of Soccer Clinic Series is about more than just soccer — it’s about creating opportunity, building community, and leaving a lasting legacy for Los Angeles,” said Kathryn Schloessman, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission and CEO of the Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee. “We’re equipping youth, coaches, and referees with the tools to thrive on and off the field.”
Play Equity Fund President Renata Simril added, “Our research shows how important soccer is to kids and communities in LA. These clinics will shine a light on coaches and kids who are writing new chapters in life and on the pitch. By investing in both, we turn the energy of the World Cup into a lasting legacy.”
A recent 2024 Play Equity Report found that over 640,000 youth in LA County played soccer last year — a number that continues to grow. Programs like Grow the Game of Soccer aim to ensure that growth is matched by access, inclusion, and support for every young player and coach.
How to Get Involved
Grassroots coaches interested in the December 6 clinic can express their interest through the official registration form here. Space is limited, and registration does not guarantee a spot — but those who sign up early will receive priority consideration.
Following the kickoff event, additional clinics for coaches, referees, and players will be scheduled across Greater Los Angeles in early 2026.