Houston Dynamo Football Club (HDFC) recently hosted its 15th Mini Pitch in the city on Tuesday, May 30, at Burnett Bayland Park Gulfton.
Supported by Dynamo and Dash Charities, the Club’s official 501(c)(3) non-profit arm, this initiative is part of a long-term project between the Dynamo, Dash, U.S. Soccer Foundation and former minority owners Ben Guill and Jake Silverstien with the goal of providing access to soccer and safe places to learn and play the sport in underserved communities. The project was launched in 2016, with additional pitches scheduled to be opened throughout the city over the coming months.
In attendance to celebrate the occasion were Club executives, including Chief Operating Officer & Dash president, Jessica O’Neill, and Dynamo technical director, Asher Mendelsohn. Dash players Diana Ordóñez, Joelle Anderson and Marisa Viggiano were also onsite to celebrate, along with Jathan Juarez and Omar Grey from Dynamo 2. Representing the City of Houston at the grand opening was Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones.
Dynamo and Dash Charities utilizes the finalized Mini Pitches to provide programming for initiatives such as Fubolito in the City powered by Shell Energy.
Futbolito in the City provides free soccer programming and free play to youth in the greater Houston area. The Dynamo and Dash provide free coaching for kids ages 6-14 for 90 minutes, once a week for ten weeks (split into two five-week sessions). The programs are hosted at local parks, schools and Mini Pitch locations. This program uses the power of soccer to provide an opportunity for youth to pursue their interest in playing the sport and gain new skills at zero cost to their families. Kids can sign up for each program via online registration.
Through this program, the Club has also partnered with the Mayor's Office of Gang Prevention and Intervention to provide a safe space for kids to play. Participants have the opportunity to receive prizes including Dynamo and Dash gear, tickets, autographs and the chance to meet players.
