The announcement by the LA Galaxy Foundation, Herbalife, and the U.S. Soccer Foundation regarding the installation of four new mini-pitches across Los Angeles by 2026 is part of an ongoing effort to promote soccer and provide accessible spaces for youth to play the sport.
These mini-pitches, which are about the size of a basketball court, are customized, hard-court surfaces designed for organized soccer programs and pick-up games. They serve as community hubs and have been shown to strengthen community cohesion, encourage physical activity, and improve safety perceptions.
According to community surveys, the installation of mini-pitches has had a positive impact. 99% of residents in communities with mini-pitches reported increased activity levels, 98% said their community felt safer, and 91% considered the mini-pitch a community hub.
Tom Braun, LA Galaxy Senior Vice President of Soccer & Business Operations and Business Development said, “The LA Galaxy are honored to continue our partnership with the U.S. Soccer Foundation and Herbalife as we look to install new mini-pitches across Los Angeles by 2026. Not only do these fields provide safe places to play in our neighborhoods, but they expand on our collective commitment to the advancement of the sport at all levels as we look to grow the game of soccer in our communities.”
Humberto Calleja, Vice President and General Manager for Herbalife, North America, expressed the belief that through this partnership and commitment, they can positively impact children’s well-being by promoting positive experiences.
Ed Foster-Simeon, President & CEO of the U.S. Soccer Foundation, expressed excitement about expanding the relationship with the LA Galaxy Foundation and Herbalife to provide more safe places to play across Los Angeles. He emphasized that these mini-pitches not only offer safe places for youth to play but also strengthen communities as community hubs.
This initiative aligns with the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s It’s Everyone’s Game national movement, which aims to ensure that children in underserved communities can enjoy the health and youth development benefits of soccer. The U.S. Soccer Foundation has already installed over 600 mini-pitches nationwide and aims to install 1,000 by 2026.
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