The United States Consortium (USCSA) Announces They Have Received A Grant To Support Pathways For Girls and Women to Excel in Soccer
The future of girls’ soccer just got a major boost! The United States Consortium of State Associations (USCSA) has been awarded a $180,000 Innovate to Grow grant from the U.S. Soccer Federation, marking a significant investment in expanding opportunities for young female players across the USA.
Breaking Barriers, Building Pathways
This funding is a game-changer. It will help USCSA tackle some of the biggest challenges facing girls and women in soccer—keeping them in the game, growing participation, providing real opportunities, and eliminating barriers. The grant will also create meaningful pathways for female athletes, coaches, referees, and administrators, ensuring they have the support they need to excel.
“This grant will enable us to make a lasting impact on the next generation of female soccer players,” said Jennifer Davis, Executive Director of STX Youth Soccer, a USCSA member. “We are incredibly grateful to U.S. Soccer for their belief in our vision and commitment to leveling the playing field for women in sports.” 
Empowering the Next Generation
With these funds, USCSA will expand outreach programs, provide scholarships, enhance coaching and referee education, and support grassroots initiatives. The goal? To give girls and women more opportunities to thrive in soccer—both on and off the field.
The consortium of states, whose combined mission is to integrate traditional business strategies and shared resources to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the 16-member US Youth Soccer State Associations, was proud to receive a $180,000 grant to Grow the Girls Game.
The generous Innovate to Grow grant was awarded by the U.S. Soccer Federation, the national governing body of soccer in all its forms in the United States.
“Beyond the pride of a successful grant application, I am inspired by the effort of 16 State Associations working together to align and work towards a common goal,” said Evan Dabby, Chief Executive Officer of New Jersey Youth Soccer “This effort will not only help Grow the Girls Game, it will highlight the potential of what the Consortium can achieve growing youth soccer.”
Through skill-building clinics, leadership programs, and mentorship, the initiative aims to inspire, and equip female athletes to reach their full potential. USCSA’s efforts also focus on increasing visibility and professional opportunities for women in the sport, paving the way for the next generation of soccer leaders. In addition, goals include fostering leadership and creating pathways for girls and women to excel in the sport at every level.
This funding is more than just numbers—it’s about keeping girls in the game, breaking down barriers, and opening doors to leadership, competition, and careers in soccer.
“THIS GRANT WILL ENABLE US TO MAKE A LASTING IMPACT ON THE NEXT GENERATION OF FEMALE SOCCER PLAYERS.”
Davis
Building a Stronger Future for Female Players
This $180,000 grant received to help further the girls’ and women’s side of the sport is an essential milestone in the continued effort to close the gender gap in soccer and sports. With the increased focus on empowering women in all soccer areas, the USCSA remains committed to providing accessible, high-quality soccer opportunities for girls and women, regardless of their background or resources.
New Jersey Youth Soccer launched the NYJS Growing the Girls Game in 2021, focusing on empowering females both on and off the field and at all stages of the soccer experience.
ABOUT THE CONSORTIUM OF SOCCER ASSOCIATIONS
The United States Consortium of State Associations (USCSA) is a game-changer in our soccer ecosystem.
The USCSA, representing 16 US Youth Soccer State Associations and nearly 900,000 players, is dedicated to making soccer more accessible and impactful. With this grant, the organization will:
✅ Expand outreach programs to get more girls playing
✅ Provide scholarships to ensure financial barriers don’t stop dreams
✅ Enhance coaching and referee training for female leaders
✅ Support grassroots initiatives that inspire young athletes
✅ Create career pathways in all areas of the sport
Traditionally, each state association operates independently, limiting growth. We’re here to break those barriers and redefine soccer, making it more accessible and enjoyable. USCSA believes in unlocking the potential in every local community, offering exceptional service and inspiration.
To learn more about the United States Consortium of State Associations and its initiatives to support girls and women in soccer, please visit ConsortiumOfSoccerAssociations.org and follow the official LinkedIn page.
Additional reference: U.S. Soccer – Grow the Game information
