Soccer is a game that brings people together, transcending borders and cultures. It is a game that requires dedication, perseverance, and teamwork. For many young athletes, having access to proper soccer gear can be a significant barrier to participating in the sport. However, a new initiative by Subaru and the Philadelphia Union aims to change this by collecting and distributing soccer gear to under-resourced communities. **The Partnership**
The partnership between Subaru and the Philadelphia Union is a testament to the power of collaboration and community engagement. The two organizations share a common goal of making soccer more accessible to all, particularly to those who cannot afford to participate in the sport. By working together, they aim to collect at least 2,026 pieces of soccer gear, which will be distributed to local programs in coordination with Leveling the Playing Field and Philadelphia Parks and Recreation. The Gear for Good collection bins will be installed at five new locations across the Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey region, in addition to the donation bins currently available at 17 local Subaru retailers and at Subaru Park. Donations will be accepted through April 3, 2026, and items should include new or gently used cleats, soccer balls, shin guards, goalie gloves, or other soccer-specific equipment in adherence with Leveling the Playing Field donation standards. **The Impact**
The impact of this initiative will be felt across the Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey region. Over 100 unique youth programs will benefit from the donated soccer gear, giving more kids access to the equipment they need to join teams, stay active, and enjoy the game. The donated gear will also help to reduce the financial burden on these programs, allowing them to allocate resources to other areas such as transportation, nutrition, and staffing. **The Community Involvement**
Community members are encouraged to participate by donating new or gently used soccer gear for a chance to win a variety of prizes, including a grand prize trip to the 2026 MLS All-Star Weekend. The Gear for Good Sweepstakes is open to legal U.S. residents at least 18 years of age who reside within a seventy-five-mile radius of Subaru Park. **The Organizations Involved**
Several organizations are involved in this initiative, each contributing their expertise and resources to make it a success. Subaru of America, Inc. is providing the necessary infrastructure and support to collect and distribute the soccer gear. Leveling the Playing Field is coordinating the distribution of the gear to local programs, ensuring that it reaches those who need it most. The Philadelphia Union is also playing a key role in promoting the initiative and encouraging community involvement. **The Future**
The future of this initiative is bright, with a strong partnership between Subaru and the Philadelphia Union. The two organizations share a common goal of making soccer more accessible to all, and their collaboration is a testament to the power of community engagement. As the excitement for the world’s most popular sport grows in the Philadelphia region, this initiative is one way to strengthen the communities that make up the city. **Alan Bethke, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Subaru of America**
“Every child deserves the chance to play, and sometimes all that stands in the way is the need for a pair of cleats. This initiative is rooted in the belief that access to sports can open doors, build confidence, and create lasting connections. As the excitement for the world’s most popular sport focuses in on our region, this is one way we’re helping to strengthen the communities we call home.”
**Frankie Westfield, Defender, Philadelphia Union**
“Soccer has the power to unite communities, inspire individuals, and bring people together around the world. I’m proud to join Subaru and represent the Philadelphia Union in support of this initiative, helping make the game more accessible for families and giving more kids the chance to play, just like I did.”
**About Subaru of America, Inc.**
Subaru of America, Inc. is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Subaru Corporation of Japan. Headquartered in Camden, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts, and accessories through a network of about 640 retailers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill plants, including Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc., the only U.S. automobile manufacturing plant designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. **About Philadelphia Union**
The Philadelphia Union is an innovative, forward-thinking professional soccer club competing in Major League Soccer (MLS) and one of Philadelphia’s five major league sports teams. Driven by unprecedented fan support, MLS awarded the Philadelphia expansion franchise rights to Jay Sugarman in 2008 and the Union kicked off its inaugural season in 2010. **About Leveling the Playing Field**
Leveling the Playing Field (LPF) is a nonprofit organization committed to expanding access and equity in youth sports by redistributing new and gently-used sports equipment to under-resourced communities. Founded in 2013, LPF addresses the growing gap between those who can afford to participate in sports and those who cannot, recognizing the high cost of sporting goods as a major barrier. Through a network of community donations and volunteers, LPF collects and sorts sports and recreational equipment, then supplies it to schools, community programs, and youth organizations across several regions.
