Khya Robinson, NJ Youth Soccer
NJ Youth Soccer Extends Community Outreach via Innovate to Grow Grant from U.S. Soccer
New Jersey Youth Soccer has announced the addition of North Jersey FC as a member club through its Innovate to Grow community outreach. The Innovate to Grow Fund was introduced by the U.S. Soccer Federation in pursuit of its mission to make soccer the preeminent sport in the United States. The initiative seeks to develop underserved soccer communities, with an overall focus on building the sport at the grassroots level.
“We are thrilled to see the progress that NJ Youth Soccer has made using the ITG grant in the past two years,” said Cindy Cone, US Soccer President. “The work that NJYS and all of our members do continues to be invaluable as we strive to grow our game for all.”
North Jersey FC was originally established in 2018. The club has since rebranded with a new look and leadership team while also focusing on providing opportunities for children of all backgrounds and skill levels. Over the years, North Jersey FC has seen success in key areas that support its mission, such as developing the club to college pathway, establishing a 2022 winter indoor facility and attracting a diverse group of players.
“In the next three to five years, NJFC hopes to provide soccer for as many players as we can at every level and age group, from recreation level players to those who will be college athletes and beyond,” said Besmir Zuta, NJFC Sporting Director. “We hope to house from the U6 to adult level with both male and female teams. We just want to provide opportunities to those who want them, as the beautiful game is something everyone should be a part of. Soccer for everyone, with no exceptions.”
North Jersey FC has overcome some major obstacles to get where it is today, including the establishment of a home base. During Thanksgiving Weekend this past year, North Jersey FC staff spent time cleaning up and preparing a temporary indoor facility that gave their players, and players from the local community, a place to play pick-up games and train with their coaching staff. The indoor facility also enabled the club to provide its players with a place for classroom sessions, enjoy team dinners and have soccer viewing parties. North Jersey FC acknowledges a solution is always possible when a community comes together to provide opportunities for its youth.
“It brings me great joy to continue this path with Besmir and North Jersey FC, understanding the club’s needs and plans for the future,” said David Ricca, NJYS ITG Project Consultant. “NJ Youth Soccer is here to support the club every step of the way with the US Soccer Innovate to Grow Grant.”
As the club moves forward, North Jersey FC envisions continued growth and aspires to offer teams at every age group for players of all backgrounds and skill levels. Over the next few years, the club hopes to launch camps, clinics, tournaments and other activities to help all players “Live the Game!”
For more information about Innovate to Grow, please contact David Ricca, NJYS Innovate to Grow Consultant, at [email protected]. To contact New Jersey Youth Soccer directly, please email [email protected]. Also make sure to follow us on social media: @NJYouthSoccer