Here are some noteworthy program and organizational highlights:
Our programs reached 2,000 Lawrence boys and girls, ages 4-18, in 2015.
We support a 96%-travel player retention rate since our first travel team in 2007.
We grew our presence in the Lawrence Public Schools from one elementary school partner in 2013, to 10 schools and agencies partners in 2015.
We support 8 Lawrence Youth Travel Soccer teams, including new U10 & U18 teams.
97% of our high school students (kids participating in at least 2 travel seasons) represent sports teams at 15 area public and private high schools, and 76% are honor roll students. Our kids continue to stay active and engaged “beyond” middle school!
During the 2015 school year, we sponsored 595 hours of physical activity in the schools.
Our average participant retention rate is 4.2 years, which means kids are joining our programs and staying with us over an extended period of time.
We launched our first healthy cooking course in 2013, and because of the great interest and positive feedback, we funded and built a teaching kitchen that increased reach by 100%, including first-time courses for parents.
Our annual two-week Soccer & Wellness Camp is now in its 7thyear, reaching more than 375 Lawrence boys and girls since its inception.
For families with transportation constraints we now bring soccer clinics to families/kids living in local housing projects over the summer months.
Approximately 30% of kids participating in our after school recreational program come from partner schools, which shows we are growing student interest in sport and reaching families who might not otherwise have the opportunity.
Beyond Soccer is benefiting from a new grass field this fall (Fall 2016) thanks to the City’s efforts securing a state PARC grant. We are also working with local businesses to identity space to apply a $200,000 field grant award from the U.S. Soccer for the development of a turf playing space. This will enable us to expand our recreational, travel and school-based programs.
Beyond Soccer boasts a 100% high school graduation rate. Lawrence High School’s current graduation rate is 65%.
