At this year’s NRPA Annual Conference in Orlando, MLS GO showed up to do what we do best: connect communities through the game of soccer.
From hands-on play in the Demo Zone to meaningful conversations during the education session, we focused on making soccer more accessible through parks and recreation.
MLS GO x NRPA: Expanding Access to the Game
Earlier this year, MLS GO, RCX Sports, and the announced a multi-year partnership to bring affordable, high-quality soccer programming to parks and recreation departments in communities across the country.
That shared mission—to make soccer accessible for every child—was front and center at this year’s NRPA Annual Conference in Orlando. Attendees saw firsthand how the partnership is helping local agencies expand access, reach more kids, and bring a new level of energy to community soccer.
A key highlight was the announcement of a specific $100,000 grant for NRPA, delivered as part of the MLS GO PLAY FUND’s annual commitment to help parks and recreation departments remove financial barriers for families.Through the fund, agencies can receive support for uniforms, equipment, and field space, making it easier for every kid to get in the game.
Garland Cooper, Chief Operating Officer at RCX Sports, spoke about the importance of initiatives like this in closing the gap in youth sports participation:
“Travel and club soccer are growing, but participation at the grassroots level isn’t keeping pace. There are fewer low-cost, low-pressure options for kids. That’s where MLS GO comes in—it’s the access point that keeps the game open to everyone.”
The Demo Zone
Outside the session rooms, the Demo Zone turned into a mini pitch where attendees got to test drills and see just how easy it is to bring MLS GO to life in their own parks.
The turf setup drew constant crowds, helped by appearances from Orlando City SC player Carlos Mercado and fan-favorite mascot Kingston, who spent the afternoon signing autographs and cheering people on.
For many, it was their first time seeing how MLS GO programming looks in action: simple to run, adaptable for any space, and designed to make kids feel like part of something bigger.
Real Talk on Growing the Game
At the NRPA education session, “Bringing Soccer Back to the Community: Growing the Game as World Cup 2026 Approaches,” the conversation centered on one big idea: making soccer accessible for everyone.
Panelists Kyle Albrecht (VP & GM, MLS NEXT & MLS GO), Garland Cooper (COO, RCX Sports), Blake Moore (Director of Community Services & Recreation, Enterprise Parks and Recreation), and Nick Santos (Director of Youth Soccer, Orlando City SC and Orlando Pride) shared how parks and recreation departments can help bring soccer back to its roots.
Albrecht spoke about how partnerships at the local level can be the foundation for growth.
“The ability to introduce MLS GO in an entry-level way with parks and recs helps fuel existing soccer programs,” he said. “Soccer should be available to anyone who wants to get a start in the game.”
Santos rounded out the discussion by reflecting on how the sport’s culture is evolving.
“You see kids wearing jerseys with MLS logos—soccer is cool,” he said. “The 2026 World Cup, the largest ever, is going to elevate this sport to the next level.”
Local Success Stories, National Impact
The themes from the session came to life through stories shared by park and recreation leaders across the country—each showing how MLS GO can drive real impact at the community level.
In Enterprise, Alabama, Blake Moore’s team has used MLS GO to strengthen relationships with local clubs.
“Parks and recs and clubs don’t have to work against each other,” he explained. “We had 260 kids in our first year because the club teams bought in. They’re now running tournaments that create real economic impact for our city. It’s a win-win.”
Across the country in Taft, California, West Side Recreation & Park District is preparing to experience that same momentum as one of the newest MLS GO leagues. The district serves a highly diverse population and has long prioritized programs that keep opportunities affordable and close to home. Their STOP Scholarship program already helps families cover registration costs for youth activities, making MLS GO a natural next step in expanding access.
The league is also being supported by an NRPA MLS GO Grant, which will help fund scholarships, uniform kits, and essential start-up needs for their first season.
“What’s happening in Taft is exactly why this grant exists,” said Kim Soltis, Development Coordinator at the RCX Sports Foundation. “When a community is ready to open the door wider for its kids, MLS GO gives them the structure to do it. West Side Rec is building something that will last far beyond one season.”
Looking Ahead
As the 2026 World Cup draws closer, excitement for the sport continues to grow, and programs like MLS GO are ensuring that every child has a way to be part of it.
Want to bring MLS GO to your community?
Learn more about how to start a league or connect with your local parks and recreation department today.
