Raleigh, NC (May 7, 2024) – North Carolina FC Youth, the largest youth soccer organization in the state and youth-to-professional soccer club in the country, announces an impactful Community Partnership Agreement with Capitol Broadcasting Company in support of its 50^th anniversary year. Through Capitol Broadcasting Company’s various television and digital platforms such as WRAL-TV, WRAL.com, WRAZ (FOX 50) and WRAL brand social channels, the strategic media partnership aims to expand the reach and impact of NCFC Youth’s 50^th anniversary activations, which will encompass reflections on the club’s rich history in conjunction with fundraising events in support of NCFC Youth’s Financial Aid Fund, ensuring that every child has access to the game of soccer now and for the next 50 years. 

“This innovative media collaboration with Capitol Broadcasting Company, another long-standing Raleigh community partner, represents a significant milestone for NCFC Youth as we celebrate soccer’s impact throughout our 50^th anniversary year,” said Gary Buete, Chief Executive Officer at NCFC Youth. “Through this amazing opportunity, we have joined forces with Capitol Broadcasting Company to engage with our community on a broader scale, amplify the transformative stories of integral NCFC Youth alumni and those who came before us, and raise vital funds to go towards financial aid, ensuring economic barriers never stand in the way of a child’s participation in soccer.”

The anniversary year celebrations officially kicked off at the 11^th annual Kick 4 a Cause 4v4 tournament, presented by Galatians Community Health on January 27.  Capitol Broadcasting Company served as the media partner for the event. In past years, the entirely charitable event has raised over $100,000 for nonprofits aiding youth health, education, and underserved communities. This year’s event was no less of a roaring success, raising over $30,000 towards the NCFC Youth Financial Aid Fund. Capitol Broadcasting Company was also the official media partner of this year’s annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser, which raised an additional $36,000 for NCFC Youth’s Financial Aid Fund. Capitol Broadcasting Company’s support of the 50^th anniversary will culminate at a year-end fall fundraiser to be held October 23 at the Angus Barn, with proceeds benefiting the Financial Aid Fund. 

NCFC Youth is dedicated to fostering inclusivity and opportunity within the game of soccer through its robust Financial Aid Fund. With a commitment to ensuring that financial constraints never hinder a child's ability to play, NCFC Youth regularly distributes over $440,000 annually in financial aid to make sure that all children, regardless of their background or financial circumstances, have access to the sport they love. This initiative extends across all ages and levels of play within the club, reflecting a deep-seated belief in the power of soccer to positively impact individuals and communities. By providing financial aid, NCFC Youth not only enables children to pursue their passion for soccer but also cultivates the next generation of leaders who will go on to make meaningful contributions to their schools and communities. Those who support the Financial Aid Fund play a crucial role in this mission, empowering children to dream big and witness those dreams become reality on the soccer field.

Recently, NCFC Youth unveiled a campaign to announce and solicit nominations for players, coaches, teams and other contributors to be recognized as a part of a 50^th Anniversary All-Star Commemorative Team. There are many supporters who have played a role in shaping NCFC Youth’s past, present and future, and the formation of this All-Star Commemorative Team is a way to offer gratitude, reflect on and share just a few of those stories and their impact. More information on the nominations process and other 50^th anniversary events can be found here. 

About NCFC Youth

Since 1974, NCFC Youth is a non-profit organization committed to enhancing each player’s soccer experience at every level and age of play. Through innovative soccer programming, player development opportunities, and a focus on coaching education, NCFC Youth creates an environment for more than 16,000 players and 1,900 coaches to grow on and off the field. As the largest club in North Carolina, NCFC Youth is proud to offer Recreation, Juniors, Challenge, Classic, Elite Clubs National League, and community outreach programs. NCFC Youth strives to improve the quality of life for our players, families, and community through the game of soccer.