During the first weekend of June, the New York State West Youth Soccer Association kicked off Project Passback as part of their Prestigious State Cup Final Four Tournament. Contributions from 10 clubs donated everything from cleats and jerseys to soccer balls and nets. These donations had an estimated value of more than $2,500 in soccer gear. 

 

NYSWYSA donated a $300 gift certificate to the team that donated the most equipment. This year the Buffalo United Club, specifically the under 17 boys team, won the top honors with an incredible effort. The Rochester Junior Rhinos, The Rochester Futbol Club, Syracuse Blitz, Syracuse Futbol Club and CNY United FC also contributed to this worthy cause. 

 

Michael Radecke, President of the NYSWYSA commented “it was great to see the kids and families bringing soccer gear to donate! They were excited to help spread the joy of the world’s greatest game. Thank you to all who supported this effort!” 

 

The Passback Program is a joint effort between the U.S. Soccer Foundation, Eurosport, and Major League Soccer to help meet the soccer uniform and equipment needs of all communities, regardless of income, gender, or location. Since its inception, the program has grown enormously and thousands of pieces of equipment have been collected and distributed to schools, clubs, and youth organizations across the world. From a small school in Zimbabwe to an after-school program in inner-city New York, Passback gear has found its way to all corners of the globe, but it is still possible to do more!

 

The equipment donations received during the NYSWYSA State Cup Final Four Tournament will be sent to Nicaragua through the Nicaragua Mission Project of East Amherst, NY. This organization is led by Ann Marie Zon. With the help of two native priests she coordinates boat shipments of supplies, offers educational opportunities, and medical support to the native people. 

 

Special thanks go out to all who donated in order to help spread the joy of soccer to people in need!