Philadelphia Union Foundation partners with The SWAG

The Philadelphia Union Foundation will partner with The SWAG, a program to help inner-city children develop a passion for soccer.

The SWAG offers free soccer training for 47 weeks of the year for ages 4-8, and operates in African American and immigrant communities. The programs are primarily in the North and Southwest regions of the city, where football and basketball are the most popular sports.

Currently, The SWAG supports over 2,000 kids annually by offering free technical training, and the chance to develop their skills in a “fun environment.” Additionally, the kids will be more likely to receive scholarships or even play professionally down the road.

“We see tremendous value in partnering with The SWAG, who are committed to introducing soccer to low-income communities where children have less access to the game,” said Paul Howard, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Union Foundation. “Through this new partnership, we hope we can grow a love for soccer while expanding our reach and impact in the community.”

The SWAG holds “Starter Days” many times a year, which gather new kids for a two hour beginning training session. From there, higher-skilled boys are given the opportunity to join “The SWAG Select” for more in-depth and higher level training, while girls of similar ability can be referred to top clubs in the area.

The Union will host a joint Starter Day with The SWAG on Tuesday, July 13, the first of its kind. The event will be held at Conservatory Field from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

For more information about The SWAG, you can visit their website here.