Miami-Dade’s youth empowered through soccer, featuring new mini-pitches and Just Ball League

From the humble streets of Argentina to DRV PNK Stadium in South Florida, Lionel Messi’s soccer journey is an inspiring tale of talent nurtured in modest beginnings. Growing up in a neighborhood that cherished teamwork, humility and empathy, Messi has a story that echoes the values instilled by playing in local leagues — a narrative that now transcends borders, defining him as a global icon.

Participating in sports and being part of a team, including soccer, not only shapes individuals and unites neighborhoods but helps foster crucial social skills in young players that will serve them as adults, while helping them avoid negative situations like being left alone with no direction. Recognizing this, the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Just Ball League, a success story in New York City and Los Angeles, recently kicked off in Miami-Dade County. This initiative is part of the broader Miami-Dade Soccer Initiative, a collaborative effort between the U.S. Soccer Foundation, Griffin Catalyst, Miami-Dade County and The Children’s Trust.

The ambitious goal of reaching 36,000 Miami-Dade youth by 2030 involves constructing 50 new soccer mini-pitches in underserved communities. By 2026, coinciding with the FIFA World Cup in North America, these mini-pitches and accompanying soccer programming aim to offer a platform for children to enjoy the physical, mental and emotional benefits of the sport.

Beyond creating players, the Just Ball League is focused on establishing a robust community support system. Specially trained coach-mentors, referred to as “playmakers,” become beacons of guidance, addressing the diverse needs of youth and ensuring encouragement for every child to thrive, regardless of background.

The recent inauguration of the first mini-pitch at Centro Mater in downtown Miami, followed by another one at Everglades Village in Homestead, signifies more than just a physical space. These mini-pitches are safe havens where dreams take flight, friendships blossom and futures are molded. It’s not merely about soccer skills but about instilling vital life skills in young players. The impact of the Just Ball League is promising, with 95 percent of participants developing more confidence, 94 percent feeling happier, 84 percent feeling less stress and 81 percent having new friends. This initiative transcends the game; it empowers youth, providing purpose and nurturing dreams that aspire to reach the stars.

Building upon the success of the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Soccer for Success program, funded by The Children’s Trust in Miami-Dade since 2017, the Just Ball League works to amplify positive outcomes. Thousands of kids have received the benefits of exercise, fun and reported better attitudes toward school and homework, improved relationships with peers and teachers, and increased positive self-views.

As we all eagerly anticipate the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Miami-Dade County not only prepares to host a global event but also nurtures its own stars. The Just Ball League and the mini-pitches symbolize a belief that dreams, fueled by passion and dedication, can indeed change the world.

To find a Just Ball League location near you, visit ussoccerfoundation.org/map, and for more information on the league go to ussoccerfoundation.org/programs/just-ball-league. For more information on The Children’s Trust’s support of soccer, visit TheChildrensTrust.org/soccer.

Ximena Nunez has more than 20 years of experience in marketing and communications and blends her passion for children with her fervor for creative marketing and communications at The Children’s Trust in Miami-Dade County, where she has been director of communications for the past five years.