Kansas City Current Launches Free Youth Soccer League for 120 Kids

In July, the Kansas City Current opened a free youth soccer league in the city’s historic Northeast neighborhood, beginning on July 11 at the 9th and Van Brunt Athletic Fields Park. The program enrolled about 120 children aged 8 to 10 across eight teams, offering them uniforms, shin guards, and Nike cleats at no cost. The initiative, supported by CVS Health and other community partners, also provides stipends for coaches and training for teenagers aged 14 and older to become certified referees. The launch was attended by Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, Missouri Senator Barbara Washington, Current co‑founders Angie and Chris Long, and National Women’s Soccer League commissioner Jessica Berman. The league is scheduled to run through August 29, with the aim of increasing youth participation, especially among girls, and connecting families with additional community resources.