The San Jose Earthquakes, YMCA of Silicon Valley, Major League Soccer and RCX Sports are proud to launch MLS GO locally through a pilot league designed to expand access to recreational soccer and deepen grassroots engagement across Silicon Valley.
Through this partnership, the YMCA of Silicon Valley will introduce MLS GO programming at its locations, creating a structured, accessible league experience for more than 400 youth in its first year.
In collaboration with Major League Soccer, RCX Sports and the Earthquakes, the program brings together national infrastructure and trusted community leadership to strengthen local youth soccer opportunities ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026™.
Expanding Access to the Game
MLS GO is Major League Soccer’s recreational youth soccer platform, built to provide a fun, inclusive and developmentally appropriate experience for players and families.
With this partnership:
- Approximately 400 youth will participate in the MLS GO league during the pilot year
- An additional 2,000 YMCA families will be engaged through MLS GO programming and receive tickets to the Earthquakes Home Opener through the club’s Kicks for Kids initiative
- The Earthquakes will host a coaching education session to support volunteer development and elevate the quality of instruction
- A community MLS GO skills clinic will help launch the league and build excitement among families
- Participants will receive official MLS GO league kits and soccer balls to ensure every child is equipped to play
The YMCA of Silicon Valley is also a recipient of MLS GO PLAY FUND grant support to help power the league’s launch and long-term success. The grant provides financial backing, league kits and operational resources to support the program’s impact in the pilot year and position it for future growth.
Building Grassroots Momentum Toward 2026
With the Bay Area set to play a visible role during FIFA World Cup 2026™, this initiative represents an intentional investment in growing grassroots and recreational soccer engagement locally.
By lowering barriers to entry and connecting families to professional soccer experiences, the MLS GO pilot aims to increase participation, visibility and enthusiasm for the sport across Silicon Valley.
Leadership Perspectives
Robert Davis, Head of Community Relations and Foundation, San Jose Earthquakes
“This is what growing the game looks like at the local level. The YMCA of Silicon Valley has long been a trusted partner in youth development, and through MLS GO we are creating a pathway that connects grassroots soccer directly to the professional game. Welcoming YMCA families to our Home Opener, supporting coaching education and ensuring kids have the equipment they need are tangible steps that build lasting momentum as we approach 2026.”
Chris Ward, Program Manager, MLS GO, RCX Sports
“MLS GO is designed to make recreational soccer more accessible and more consistent for families nationwide. Partnering with the YMCA of Silicon Valley and the Earthquakes allows us to combine national resources with strong local leadership. Through PLAY FUND support and league infrastructure, we are excited to help launch a sustainable program that will serve more than 400 kids in its first year and continue growing.”
Danny Koba, VP of Youth Development, YMCA of Silicon Valley
“At the YMCA of Silicon Valley, serving children and families is at the heart of everything we do. Through our exciting partnership with the San Jose Earthquakes, we’re expanding access to youth soccer across Silicon Valley — removing barriers and creating an inclusive experience that builds skills, confidence, and connection. Together, we’re strengthening our community through the power of sport.”
About MLS GO:
MLS GO is Major League Soccer’s official recreational youth program, committed to delivering an inclusive, high-quality soccer experience for children ages 4-14. Designed to engage all participants, from first-time players to future pros, MLS GO emphasizes skill development, and fostering a lifelong love of the game. By offering a structured, community-based program with connections to a developmental pathway, the league aims to break down barriers and make soccer accessible to all. For more information about MLS GO, visit https://www.mlssoccer.com/mlsgo/.
