At Urban Initiatives, every program year begins with one of our most energizing traditions: Kickoff Training. On Saturday, September 6, many of our coaches gathered to set the tone for the year ahead. Whether they’ll be leading Recess, Elementary Soccer, or other Out of School Time (OST) services, one thing is clear: quality coaches are the foundation of our work.
Coaches as the Heart of UI
At UI, our mission is powered by people. Coaches are the steady presence on the field, in the gym, and on the playground who bring sport and play to life for thousands of Chicago’s youth. This fall alone, 70 schools across the city will benefit from the passion and commitment of our coaching team.
But what makes a UI coach stand out isn’t just the drills they run or the games they organize. It is their dedication to living out our coach behaviors and creating safety, fostering skills, and supporting youth independence. These commitments are how coaches transform play into powerful moments of social-emotional learning (SEL).
Creating Safe Spaces
Safety is the bedrock of everything we do. Our coaches work intentionally to ensure that every young person feels welcome, valued, and protected. They model respect, establish clear routines, and create inclusive environments where youth can bring their full selves to the game.
Fostering Skills Through Sport and Play
Soccer, recess games, and other activities are more than just fun. They are opportunities to build teamwork, resilience, communication, and problem-solving skills. Our coaches are trained to use play as a vehicle for growth, helping youth practice and strengthen these skills in ways that stick both on and off the field.
Supporting Youth Independence
Ultimately, UI coaches empower youth to take the lead. From encouraging students to set up their own scrimmages, to guiding them in resolving conflicts, to celebrating when they try something new, coaches know that independence builds confidence. Their work helps young people believe in their own potential, one play at a time.
A Community of Impact
Kickoff Training was more than a gathering. It was a reminder of the community our coaches build with one another and with the youth they serve. Coaches left the training with new tools, shared wisdom, and the excitement of knowing they are part of something bigger: a movement to empower Chicago’s youth through sport and play-based SEL.
This fall, as the whistles blow and games begin, we know the true impact won’t just be seen in goals scored or games won. It will be in the safe, skill-building, independence-boosting moments our coaches create every single day.
