Bringing Soccer to West Philadelphia: Children, Sports, Community, and Education

In 2017 Michael Arthur the Founder of the Congregation of Black Naturalists (CBN) launched Village of Champions Soccer Club for youth ages 5-11, bringing soccer to West Philadelphia—a community where children's soccer programs did not exist at the time, and charter schools lacked funding for sports. At the time, soccer was a sport for wealthier communities, and many youths in West Philadelphia had never played soccer before.

Michael's low-cost and free soccer program provided more than just a place to play. It became a safe space for kids and families, offering an affordable childcare alternative while ensuring access to health education, fresh fruits and vegetables, and leadership development opportunities. Despite starting with a zero budget, Michael brought together a strong team of passionate volunteers, including Saunsuray Govere the Financial Officer for CBN. Saunsuray built strong partnerships in the community to make it happen. She partnered with charter schools, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, Philadelphia Union, the Philadelphia Zoo, the Philadelphia Museum, Irving Brothers Produce, and Dick's Sporting Goods, to name a few. With financial and in-kind donations, youth in West Philadelphia could participate in soccer lessons for free and a soccer camp at an affordable price with scholarships available.

The soccer club was built on three core pillars: teamwork, health education, and community service. These pillars were carefully chosen to address the community's needs, particularly the high crime rate and food insecurity, by fostering unity, togetherness, and healthy eating. The program encouraged youth to develop strong communication skills, work collaboratively, and take on leadership roles in their neighborhoods. Through community service initiatives, they led by example—keeping their local parks clean, engaging with their peers in positive ways, and demonstrating the power of collective responsibility.

By combining sports, health education, and community service, CBN officers empowered youth to take ownership of their health and their surroundings. The success of Village of Champions proved that sports can be a catalyst for change, providing access, equity, and empowerment for underserved communities. With continued support, we can expand programs like this, ensuring more children have access to sports, education, and a healthier future—for themselves and their communities.