Hayward School Board Approves Free Soccer Program for Immigrant Youth
Hayward Unified has partnered with Soccer Without Borders to provide soccer gear, tutoring, and emotional support to newcomer students.
The Hayward Unified School District board has approved a year-long partnership with the nonprofit group Soccer Without Borders to bring an all-inclusive soccer program to Tennyson High School. The initiative will support 35 high school students through both a boys and girls team throughout the full school year.
The program is specifically tailored to assist newcomer immigrant and refugee students as they adapt to a new school system and community. Coaches will incorporate English language practice into soccer drills while creating a supportive setting for students to build friendships, talk through emotional hurdles, and share cultural experiences.
All necessary gear, including jerseys, cleats, shin guards, and practice balls, will be provided at zero cost to participating families. The nonprofit is also covering team transportation to games and pairing sports training with academic tutoring, college preparation workshops, and family outreach.