Street football celebrates big youth event in Times Square!

Street football celebrates big youth event in Times Square!

On October 12, 2025, the fourth edition of the Street Soccer Times Square Cup took place in the beating heart of New York City, and it was a real crowd-puller. Around 350 children from Street Soccer USA, a non-profit organization that offers socially disadvantaged children new opportunities through football, enthusiastically took part in the Youth Cup. The event has now become a regular part of the calendar year, and that is not without reason.

But it wasn't just the children who were there, the adults were also able to indulge their football fever. The Corporate Cup was held in the afternoon and was attended by US influencers and employees of BVB partners such as Rheinmetall. Two teams from Borussia Dortmund, led by BVB legend Roman Weidenfeller and the mascot EMMA, brought additional shine to the event. These matches were played in the popular 4v4 format, known for its fast and entertaining style of play.

A spectacle with many facets

The games took place on purpose-built street soccer arenas that were set up directly for this event and were similar to a basketball court in size and layout. Borussia Dortmund had a presence throughout the event, with BVB content appearing on three large billboards in Times Square. The positive feedback from Marc Lingenhoff, Managing Director of BVB Americas, underlined the club's values ​​and commitment to social projects. “We are proud to take part in such a fantastic event,” he said.

The event not only attracts local visitors, but is also followed by a wide audience via live streaming. The appeal of such tournaments is reflected in the fact that they offer hundreds of games and activities, including special exhibitions and an open adult cup that crowns the champions of the street soccer community. This is all happening for a good reason: all funds raised go back into Street Soccer USA's mission in each city.

The impact on the participants

A key aspect of the Street Soccer USA Cup that is increasingly coming into the focus of research is the positive impact on homeless participants. A study on sport for development found that such events promote a sense of community, hope and personal development. Through focus group interviews and direct observations at the tournaments, researchers recognized that a celebratory and inclusive atmosphere was created in which participants' successes were visibly celebrated.

The results of this research are not only important for the immediate community, but also provide approaches for future initiatives in the sport for development sector. Experts like Jon Welty Peachey and his colleagues have already highlighted the importance of such platforms and encourage further study of their social impact.

All of this makes the Street Soccer Times Square Cup an event that goes far beyond just playing soccer. It is an event that connects hearts and brings people together. It was an unforgettable day in the heart of New York for the spectators and participants, and the anticipation for the next edition is already growing.