The excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is leaving a permanent footprint in Harrison. On Aug. 27, local leaders, students, and community partners gathered at Harrison High School to officially open a brand-new mini soccer space designed to give youth, families, and student-athletes a safe place to play, learn, and connect for years to come.
Installed at no cost to the community, the project was made possible through a collaborative partnership between the NYNJ Host Committee, the U.S. Soccer Foundation, and PSEG.
A lasting legacy beyond the tournament
As global attention focused on the region during the World Cup, organizers emphasized that the true measure of the tournament’s success lies in its community impact long after the final whistle.
- Community Impact: Alex Lasry, CEO of the NYNJ Host Committee, noted that creating a lasting space for young people to compete and come together was central to the vision from the beginning.
- Expanded Recreation: Funded and supported by partners like PSEG, the initiative is bringing accessible play spaces to communities across the region, championing recreation, wellness, and youth engagement.
Empowering students and local athletes
The grand opening celebration featured a ceremonial first kick by members of the Harrison High School boys’ and girls’ soccer teams. School and municipal leaders highlighted the profound impact the new facility will have on local youth development:
- Dr. Maureen Kroog, Superintendent of Schools: Emphasized that the pitch will serve as a vital resource for physical education programs and student-athletes, fostering teamwork, wellness, and school pride.
- Mayor James Fife: Applauded the collaboration between local organizations, FIFA, and U.S. Soccer in providing families with another wonderful space to connect.
- Ed Foster-Simeon, U.S. Soccer Foundation President and CEO: Stressed that the pitch is more than just a place to play soccer, serving instead as an environment where children can build confidence and lifelong skills.
With the new mini pitch officially open, Harrison students are ready to carry the spirit of the 2026 World Cup forward right in their own backyard.
