Partnership includes $100,000 in donations to support local park and recreation agencies through the MLS GO PLAY FUND, impacting thousands of kids nationwide
NEW YORK (July 15, 2025) — MLS GO, Major League Soccer’s recreational youth soccer program, and RCX Sports, the leader in youth sports experiences, today 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 member agencies 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.”
About RCX Sports
RCX Sports is the leader in youth sports experiences, operating and partnering with leagues, events, and brands to engage and empower the next generation of athletes. As the official youth sports operator for the NFL, NBA, WNBA, NHL, MLS, MLB, and USTA, RCX is the only multi-sport organization trusted by pro leagues and governing bodies to represent them. RCX Sports delivers officially licensed uniforms, comprehensive resources, and full support, empowering league operators to create the best youth sports experiences in their communities. Committed to making youth sports accessible and inclusive, RCX Sports creates opportunities for all athletes to play and benefit from the transformative power of sports. For more information, visit rcxsports.com.
About MLS GO
MLS GO, operated by RCX Sports, is Major League Soccer’s official recreational youth program, committed to delivering an inclusive, high-quality soccer experience for children ages 4-14. Designed to engage all participants – from first-time players to future pros – MLS GO emphasizes skill development and fostering a lifelong love of the game. By offering a structured, community-based program with connections to a developmental pathway, the league aims to break down barriers and make soccer accessible to all. For more information about MLS GO, visit www.MLSGO.com.
About the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA)
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is the leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation. With more than 60,000 members, NRPA advances this mission by investing in and championing the work of park and recreation professionals and advocates — the catalysts for positive change in service of equity, environmental resilience, and overall health and well-being. For more information, visit nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit parksandrecreation.org.
Media Contacts:
For RCX Sports
Michelle Isaacs: michelle@22-spring.com
For MLS GO
Will Glenn: William.Glenn@mlssoccer.com
For NRPA
Danielle Doll: ddoll@nrpa.org
