In the United States, soccer has a pay-to-play structure, says Stephen Cavalier. This means that a lot of kids who have the great potential to be soccer players are left out if they have no access to a more competitive pathway, or if their school doesn’t offer organized soccer. So in 2015, he began a free pilot program with the help of a current Board member, after which they were able to add another site. But to grow, they needed an organized approach, leading to the creation of the Future Soccer Stars Foundation (FSSF).
Stephen says, “It was created from the idea that all children should have an equal opportunity and pathway to soccer. But not only the game of soccer—all the vital tools for life upon which soccer touches.”
Aside from being FSSF’s Executive Director, he’s also Director of Youth Development at Delaware Rush Soccer Club, Director of Operations for University of Delaware Men’s Soccer, Talent Identification Scout for the Philadelphia Union, and Head Coach and Operations Director of Delaware Football Club.
When he’s not on the field, Stephen likes working at The Mill. “It’s a great space that makes you feel inspired. The connections and people you meet are a bonus as well,” he shares.
