The FIFA World Cup 2026 Miami Host Committee, in collaboration with the City of Miami, hosted a ONE GAME ONE FUTURE community and legacy initiative at Riverside Park in Miami on Saturday, bringing together youth, educators, and community leaders for a day focused on soccer, mentorship, and community engagement.
The May 9 initiative featured a coaches workshop and youth soccer clinic, with participants taking part in on-field training sessions centered on skill-building, teamwork, and mentorship. Organizers said the program was designed to equip local stakeholders with tools to use sport as a platform for inclusion, mentorship, and youth development.
As Miami prepares to serve as one of 16 host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Miami Host Committee said it continues to expand community-focused programming through its ONE GAME ONE FUTURE initiative, aimed at increasing access to soccer while strengthening connections between schools, communities, and the sport.
Community leaders participating in the event included Vicki L. Lopez and Rolando Escalona, both of whom voiced support for expanding access to sports and youth resources across the community.
“ONE GAME ONE FUTURE is about creating meaningful opportunities for young people to grow both on and off the field,” said Rodney Barreto. “As Miami prepares to host the FIFA World Cup 2026, initiatives like this reflect our commitment to delivering a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the tournament. By expanding access to sport and investing in youth development, we are helping build stronger, more connected communities across Miami-Dade County.”
Lopez said the event demonstrated the positive impact sports programs can have on young people.
“Being out there with the kids, you really see the impact firsthand,” Lopez said. “It’s young people learning new skills, building friendships, and just enjoying themselves in a positive environment. At the same time, you have coaches and mentors showing up for them and helping guide them. That’s what makes initiatives like this so valuable—it’s simple, but it really matters.”
Escalona also emphasized the importance of investing in youth opportunities both on and off the field.
“Ensuring that every child in our community has access to opportunities that help them thrive not only on the field, but off the field as well, makes collaborations like these essential,” he said. “ONE GAME ONE FUTURE exemplifies how sports can bring people together, inspire confidence, and create a lasting impact far beyond the field. This is how we strengthen our neighborhoods, by investing in the next generation right here in District 3.”
The initiative also included opening remarks, group warm-ups, and a group photo opportunity involving participants, coaches, and community leaders.
Representatives from the FIFA World Cup 2026 Miami Host Committee, including Janelle Prieto and Jennifer Roche, were also onsite to discuss the initiative and Miami’s preparations for the tournament.
