Soccer IN School Kicks Off in Alexandria, Bringing the Beautiful Game to Every Second Grader

Alexandria, VA — In early September, the Alexandria Soccer Association (ASA) launched its new Soccer IN School program at Samuel Tucker Elementary School, introducing students to soccer skills, teamwork, and the spirit of the game. ASA coaches joined the school’s physical education classes for a two-week soccer unit focused on fun, inclusion, and learning the fundamentals of “the beautiful game.”

Backed by U.S. Soccer’s “Innovate to Grow” initiative, Soccer IN School is a collaboration between ASA, Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS), and the Virginia Youth Soccer Association (VYSA). This school year, every second-grade PE class in ACPS will take part, reaching more than 1,300 students across the city.

“It’s been exciting to see the new Soccer IN School program kick off,” said Jim Hogan, ASA’s Deputy Director of Tournaments & Programs. “This initiative is the result of months of hard work and collaboration, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see it come to life. Watching second graders out on the field — active, engaged, and smiling — truly captures the spirit of what we’re striving for: making soccer fun, inclusive, and accessible for all.”

ASA and VYSA worked closely with Kristin Donley, ACPS Health and Physical Education Specialist, to develop the program’s structure and curriculum. Donley helped shape lessons that are both educational and developmentally appropriate. “The connections ASA staff are building with students are evident—their smiles and cheers say it all,” Donley said. “Each lesson engages and challenges students of all skill levels while emphasizing positive reinforcement and social-emotional growth. I’m thrilled to bring this program to all second graders this school year.”

At Samuel Tucker Elementary, 131 second graders participated in the pilot program. Students practiced dribbling, passing, and small-sided games, while learning about teamwork and sportsmanship. ASA coaches introduced students to refereeing and the laws of the game, and distributed Soccer Skills Challenge kits, including soccer balls, jerseys, and activity dice, to encourage home practice.

Johnatan Nunez, ASA’s Outreach and School Program Manager, emphasized the program’s importance for Alexandria’s diverse community. “Many of our kids come from families where soccer is played in the street, not through organized leagues,” Nunez explained. “This program helps parents and their kids understand how to get involved in soccer outside of school. It’s something that would have made a big difference for me growing up.”

Martin Ozores, who led the on-the-ground efforts, praised the support from Samuel Tucker’s PE team, starting with teacher Martha Grutza. Ozores added that Grutza and her staff went out of their way to make sure every player had a great experience: “Their enthusiasm and organization helped make the program a success.”

Beyond teaching soccer, Soccer IN School aims to build confidence, community, and a lifelong love for sport. The initiative also includes professional development for PE teachers, providing hands-on training through U.S. Soccer educators to ensure the program’s long-term impact.

With funding secured for the next three years, ASA hopes to expand the program’s reach and help participating students transition into its recreational leagues.

“As we look ahead to the 2026 World Cup,” Hogan added, “there’s no better time to introduce more kids to soccer and build a lasting love for the game right here in our Alexandria community.”

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