Foundation supports the club’s mission to build inclusive pathways for youth success on and off the field
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Oct. 3, 2024) – Sporting JAX, the United Soccer League (USL) franchise group bringing women’s and men’s professional soccer to Northeast Florida, today announced the launch of the Sporting JAX Foundation, the club’s new charitable arm dedicated to expanding equal access to soccer and sports opportunities in underserved communities across the First Coast and beyond.
“Soccer is more than just a game – it’s a catalyst for personal growth, community building and lifelong opportunities,” said Tony Allegretti, Chief Community Officer for Sporting JAX. “We created the foundation to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has the chance to play and experience the transformative benefit of sport. By breaking down barriers and expanding access to communities in need, we are committed to nurturing young athletes and empowering the future leaders of tomorrow.”
Guided by the club’s motto, “Lift Every Voice,” the North Florida-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit will createopportunities for growth and development through sport where access is limited or nonexistent. With a focus on fostering healthy lifestyles, character and leadership development and promoting social inclusion in underserved communities, the Sporting JAX Foundation will support:
• Youth soccer initiatives including free or low-cost grassroots programs, competitive teams for advanced players, coaching clinics, school and program support.
• Opportunities for young women and girls to engage with role models from the future women’s pro team, offering mentorship opportunities and empowering the next generation of female athletes.
• Community outreach through clinics, camps and community partnerships with local organizations to bring soccer to schools, parks and community centers.
• Facility development including new soccer fields, existing field renovations and equipment donations for players and teams.
• Educational initiatives including character and leadership development, scholarships, academic support, mentoring and life skills workshops to ensure success on and off the pitch.
The continued support of Sporting JAX’s upcoming women’s and men’s professional soccer teams will enable the foundation to maintain its positive influence on the communities it serves. Sporting JAX supporters can reserve their season tickets for the club’s inaugural season with a deposit of $25 for the pro women’s or men’s teams, or a $40 deposit for both teams at www.sportingjax.com/ticket-deposits.
For more information on the Sporting JAX Foundation and upcoming initiatives, visit www.sportingjax.com. Fans are also encouraged to visit the club’s Fanzone for the latest updates and to follow its social media channels.
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About Sporting Club Jacksonville (Sporting JAX)
Sporting Club Jacksonville, or “Sporting JAX,” was established in 2020 by a passionate group of Jacksonville-based owners and is driven by a bold vision to elevate the area’s soccer scene. Renamed in collaboration with the First Coast community in 2023, the club is committed to launching a women’s professional USL Super League club, a men’s professional USL Championship club and USL Youth Academy in Northeast Florida. Through work with city and county officials, Sporting JAX will spearhead the development of a 15,000-capacity community stadium and training facilities, positioning the First Coast as a premier destination for soccer excellence. The ownership group is led by prominent entrepreneur Ricky Caplin, alongside sporting legends Tim Tebow and Fred Taylor, seasoned pro soccer executive Steve Livingstone and local community innovator Tony Allegretti. Additionally, renowned UF women’s soccer coach Becky Burleigh leads Sporting JAX’s efforts as a consultant to the women’s pro team. For more information, visit www.sportingjax.com.
About the Sporting JAX Foundation
Sporting JAX Foundation, Inc. is the charitable arm of Sporting Club Jacksonville (Sporting JAX) dedicated to empowering youth through the unifying force of sport and promoting the benefits of soccer inthe communities it serves. Guided by the club’s motto, “Lift Every Voice,” the North Florida-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit is committed to creating opportunities where access to soccer and sport is limited or nonexistent. Through innovative educational programs, soccer-focused initiatives and athletic facilities, the foundation strives to build stronger, more inclusive communities while promoting healthy living, building character and inspiring the next generation to reach their full potential. For more information, visit www.sportingjax.com/foundation or email foundation@sportingjax.com.
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