PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — As the city prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup next summer, the School District of Philadelphia is launching a major initiative to support student soccer players across the city.

Ayana Lewis, executive director of the Office of Strategic Partnerships for the district, called the investment “amazing.”

“We have the host committee and the USA World Soccer Foundation donating $405,000 to soccer programming, professional development, new soccer equipment, beautification projects – amazing investments in our young people,” Lewis said.

The partnership will benefit 21 schools and hundreds of students, with support from FIFA and local soccer clubs aimed at helping young athletes elevate their game. Student athletes gathered Tuesday at the South Philly Super Site to celebrate the announcement, just steps from Lincoln Financial Field, where World Cup matches will be held.

“I think all of us collectively, we’re just really excited for the World Cup, really excited to see the teams we support play together,” said Angel Oburu, an 11th grader at Science Leadership Academy at Beeber.

Fatiamh Iprahiam, a 9th grader at SLA Beeber, added, “I’m so excited for the World Cup, and I’m so excited to hopefully meet my favorite player. I hope so.”

Students from SLA Beeber expressed particular excitement about a new soccer field being built at their school, along with one at Olney High School.

“It’s beneficial for me because we get a field to train on, so we can win more games,” said Sally Doumbia, a 10th grader at SLA Beeber.

Oburu added, “I definitely feel like when we get the field, it’s going to improve all of our stamina, our speed, how fast we are on the field, how we play – because getting on SEPTA is a really hard issue.”

The investment also includes after-school and youth development programs focused on soccer skills, teamwork, and motivation.

Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington emphasized the long-term impact of the initiative.

“Joy is one of the core values in our five-year aggressive strategic plan entitled Accelerate Philly,” Watlington said. “And we expect to have lots of joy over the next year.”

Students interested in joining a team still have time to participate by attending practice and showcasing their skills.