Soccer Mates
School Readiness Through Friendship & Play
Founded by Hannah Crossley, Soccer Mates blends early childhood education with the joy of sport to help children aged 4–6 build the confidence they need to thrive at school. Designed with experienced educators, the program uses play to prepare children for one of life’s biggest transitions—starting school.
At its heart, Soccer Mates is about connection and community. By grouping children from the same school zone, each session helps them form real friendships before the first day of class—reducing anxiety and helping them arrive happy, confident, and ready to learn.
Each play-based soccer session is filled with fun, movement, and teamwork. Children develop physical coordination, communication, and problem-solving skills, while also learning resilience, emotional regulation, and self-belief. It’s not about being the best at sport—it’s about trying, learning, and celebrating effort.
But Soccer Mates goes beyond the field. Parents connect over coffee, siblings cheer from the sidelines, and communities grow stronger with every session. Even teen coaches gain valuable leadership skills, creating a ripple effect that supports families and schools alike.
What began as a simple idea—to use play as preparation—has become a movement that brings families, educators, and communities together. Soccer Mates is more than a program; it’s a place where confidence grows, friendships form, and the love of learning begins.
