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Rethinking U.S. Soccer: ACCESS U in USA Today
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup brings soccer into the spotlight across North America, a recent USA Today opinion column examines one of the most significant challenges facing the sport in the United States: access. Written by ACCESS U Foundation Co-Founder and Executive Director Brad Rothenberg, the article explores how the pay-to-play model continues to limit opportunities for many talented young athletes. While highlighting ACCESS U Foundation as one example of organizations wo

Marcela Baigros
7 hours ago1 min read


ACCESS U Featured on the ‘Right About Now’ Podcast
ACCESS U Foundation Co-Founder and Executive Director, Brad Rothenberg, recently joined ‘Right About Now’ host Ryan Alford for a conversation about the barriers facing youth soccer players in the United States and the importance of creating more accessible pathways to opportunity. During the episode, Brad shared how ACCESS U helps student-athletes navigate the college recruiting process while providing the guidance, support, and resources needed to pursue both academic and at

Marcela Baigros
7 hours ago1 min read


Our Work in Action: ACCESS U x Gritness on the Ground at 2026 Showcases
Last year we officially partnered with Gritness, an athlete mentorship and college recruitment program founded by former U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) player Lindsey “Linz” Huie. As part of this partnership, ACCESS U and Gritness will be on the ground, identifying high-character, high-potential student-athletes who are serious about maximizing opportunities to play soccer at the collegiate level while earning an undergraduate degree. Selected scholar-athletes will gain a
ACCESS U
Mar 193 min read


ACCESS U and Yours in Soccer Foundation partner to expand access and guidance for youth soccer players
ACCESS U and Yours in Soccer Foundation (YSF) partner to expand access and guidance for youth soccer players.
ACCESS U
Mar 162 min read


ACCESS U Foundation Welcomes Charleston Scholar-Athletes
La Fundación ACCESS U da la bienvenida a estudiantes - atletas de Charleston.
ACCESS U
Feb 274 min read


Empowering Students to Succeed
Prestige Prep and ACCESS U partner to unlock scholar-athlete potential Empowering students to succeed: that’s the ethos behind Prestige Prep, a boutique tutoring agency specializing in academics and test preparation. For 20 years, Prestige Prep has operated out of the tri-state area, offering virtual and in-person assistance for students hoping to pursue higher education. And for the last three years, those services have been extended to aid ACCESS U scholar-athletes across t
ACCESS U
Nov 17, 20252 min read


ACCESS U and COCINA Present ‘Taking Their Shot’
ACCESS U Foundation proudly announces the release of ‘Taking Their Shot’, a new original docuseries created in collaboration with COCINA, part of Mecenas Group.
ACCESS U
Nov 4, 20251 min read


ACCESS U, Aniya Williams and Isabella Hoyuela are featured in the LA Times
Soccer Meets Education: ACCESS U and Aniya Williams in the LA Times
ACCESS U
Oct 8, 20251 min read


Investing in Pathways: Not Pay-to-Play
In a recent Sports Business Journal op-ed, Lindsey Huie—Founder of Gritness and former U.S. Women’s National Team player—joined Leonard...
ACCESS U
Aug 28, 20251 min read


Congratulations to the Class of 2025!
This month, ACCESS U proudly celebrates our 22 seniors in the Class of 2025.
ACCESS U
Jun 26, 20252 min read


From Humble Roots to Harvard: Edwin’s 2021 Reflection
From Humble Roots to Harvard: Edwin’s 2021 Reflection
ACCESS U
Jun 10, 20255 min read


A Dream Within Reach: How One Teen's Talent, Determination, and the Right Support Changed Everything
In a sport often defined by access and opportunity, 17-year-old Aniya Williams is rewriting the playbook.
ACCESS U
May 23, 20251 min read


Empowering the Next Generation of Soccer Talent: Forbes Spotlights ACCESS U’s Mission
In the U.S., soccer has increasingly become a sport reserved for those who can afford the high costs associated with the pay-to-play...
ACCESS U
Apr 13, 20251 min read


ACCESS U Foundation was Awarded a $10,000 Grant From Dynamo and Dash Charities
ACCESS U Foundation was awarded a $10,000 grant from Dynamo and Dash Charities under the Youth Development Through Soccer and Education.
ACCESS U
Apr 8, 20251 min read


How ACCESS U Foundation is Helping Young Soccer Players Change Their Lives
How ACCESS U Foundation is Helping Young Soccer Players Change Their Lives?
ACCESS U
Apr 8, 20251 min read


Aniya Williams: Empowering Like a Warrior
One of the ACCESS U prospects is making a name for herself, on and off the field, her name is Aniya Williams.
ACCESS U
Apr 7, 20256 min read


Steven Barrera: From Setback to Triumph
Steven Barrera was one of ACCESS U Foundation’s first scholar-athletes (2011-2012). He attended Cal State LA on an athletic scholarship.
ACCESS U
Apr 7, 20258 min read


Clemente Quintero: The Game of Betting on Yourself
Clemente Quintero, an ACCESS U Alumni, had two passions growing up: soccer and a love for learning.
ACCESS U
Apr 7, 20258 min read


From College Graduate to Pro Athlete: Ricardo's Inspiring Journey
From College Graduate to Pro Athlete: Ricardo Ibarra, an ACCESS U alumni, shares his Inspiring Journey.
ACCESS U
Apr 7, 20256 min read


Layla Chu: Small Town, Big Dreams
The impresive soccer career of ACCESS U Alumni, Layla Chu, is a reflection of her dedication, resilience, and unmatched confidence
ACCESS U
Apr 7, 20259 min read
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