MLS GO, Major League Soccer’s recreational youth soccer program, and RCX Sports, the leader in youth sports experiences, announced a multi-year partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) to increase access to affordable, high-quality youth soccer programs through local park and recreation departments nationwide.
With a shared mission to promote inclusivity and equitable access to sports, MLS GO and RCX Sports will serve as Proud Sports Partners of NRPA, empowering NRPA 60,000 members to offer meaningful soccer experiences to kids in their communities across all 50 states.
Through the RCX Foundation, the MLS GO PLAY FUND will also provide $100,000 in donations to subsidize park and recreation agencies implementing MLS GO programming. These funds will help cover operational costs, reduce barriers to entry for families, and ensure that more kids—regardless of background—can experience the joy of soccer. Applications for the MLS GO PLAY FUND NRPA Grant can be found HERE.
“This partnership reflects our collective commitment to making sport accessible for all,” said Izell Reese, CEO of RCX Sports. “By aligning with NRPA and leveraging the power of local parks and recreation agencies, we can bring the MLS GO experience to even more kids nationwide and support the health and vitality of their communities. Together, RCX Sports, MLS GO, and NRPA are investing in the future of play—empowering youth, strengthening communities, and growing the game from the grassroots up.”
As part of the partnership, MLS GO and RCX Sports will be recognized year-round across NRPA’s platforms, including digital, print, and social media. NRPA will also explore opportunities to highlight the partnership through editorial features and will share relevant insights to elevate ongoing strategic efforts.
“Increasing participation and access to soccer is at the core of MLS GO’s mission, and partnering with NRPA significantly accelerates our ability to reach children nationwide,” said Kyle Albrecht, Vice President, MLS GO. “This partnership allows us to connect with a vast network of community leaders who share this vision and can deliver the MLS GO experience directly where it matters most — in local communities. Backed by the MLS GO PLAY FUND, we’re removing financial barriers and opening the door for kids to play, develop their skills, and build lifelong connections to the game.”
MLS GO and RCX Sports will also have a prominent presence at the NRPA Annual Conference, with MLS GO leading a dedicated education session at the event in Orlando this September. The organizations will also participate as official sponsors, with full access to advertise, exhibit, and engage with attendees to help inform future initiatives. A major component of the partnership is focused on regional outreach and support. NRPA will facilitate introductions to various agencies, helping to assess interest in MLS GO programming, collect feedback, and promote strategic discussions to support program growth.
“At NRPA, we believe that every child—regardless of their ZIP code—deserves access to high-quality sports and recreation opportunities,” said Kristine Stratton, NRPA president and CEO. “Our partnership with RCX Sports and MLS GO strengthens our ability to deliver on that promise by supporting local park and recreation professionals who are on the ground, creating welcoming spaces and opportunities where kids can thrive. Together, we are not only expanding access to the game of soccer - we are building healthier, more connected communities through play.”