Underutilized city of Dallas tennis courts get new use as soccer play spaces, thanks to partnership with Target and U.S. Soccer Foundation

Dallas Park and Recreation Department joined Target and the U.S. Soccer Foundation on in June to unveil a new soccer mini-pitch at Lake Cliff Park.

This mini-pitch, one of five to have recently come to Dallas, marks the latest play space to be completed as a part of a Target and U.S. Soccer Foundation partnership to build 100 mini-pitches nationwide by 2020.

Robert Abtahi, president, Dallas Park and Recreation Board, is pleased that underutilized city tennis courts have a new purpose. "Through this partnership, these courts have been transformed into safe soccer spaces for youth. These colorful and fun areas are ideal for neighborhoods where space is limited and perfect for those who want to learn the sport. Dallas youth are so deserving of these unique play spaces."

“Dallas Park and Recreation is honored to be a part of a nationwide initiative that is positive affirmation in the lives of Dallas youth,” said Oscar Carmona, park and recreation assistant director. “We are expanding recreational opportunities for youth by taking underused courts and transforming them for soccer. Our mini-pitches ensure that Dallas Park and Recreation makes getting outdoors and keeping active accessible and for residents and park visitors.”

Four other 120'x60' customized mini-pitches are located at Garrett, Gateway, Martin Weiss and Marcus parks. 

ABOUT DALLAS PARK AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Dallas Park and Recreation Department is a nationally accredited park and recreation agency and is among the nation’s largest urban park systems. Its mission is to champion lifelong recreation and be responsible stewards of Dallas’ 24,000 acres of park land, lakes, and leisure facilities that include 397 parks, 162 miles of trails, athletic complexes, and natural areas. It also manages recreation centers, golf courses, family aquatic centers, tennis centers, and Bahama Beach Waterpark. Visit http://www.dallaspark.org/ for program and event information.

ABOUT THE U.S. SOCCER FOUNDATION

The U.S. Soccer Foundation’s programs are the national model for sports-based youth development in underserved communities. Since its founding in 1994, the Foundation has established programs proven to help children embrace an active and healthy lifestyle while nurturing their personal growth beyond sports. Its cost-effective, high-impact initiatives offer safe environments where kids and communities thrive. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the U.S. Soccer Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. For more information, visit ussoccerfoundation.org or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Media Contact: Andrea Hawkins, Dallas Park and Recreation, andrea.hawkins@dallascityhall.com (214) 670-4678