Building Community Through School-Based Turf Fields
Since 1971, Montgomery Soccer Inc. (MSI) has believed in soccer as a connector to life lessons, growth, and community. That belief is evident not just on weekends but also in the way we invest in safe, reliable fields that serve students, families, and neighborhoods throughout the year.
For the last few years, MSI has partnered with three Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS)—Julius West Middle School, Albert Einstein High School, and Walt Whitman High School to host seasonal games, camps, tournaments, and club events. These partnerships helped bring modern turf fields to each school, unlocking more playing time for students and athletes while also increasing access.
At Julius West Middle School, the impact is felt from first bell to final whistle. Alexis Felix, a physical education teacher, sees the difference every day and looks forward to even greater opportunities as these fields continue to bring our community together. “We feel fortunate to have the turf fields at Julius West! Our PE program worries less about the weather impacting instruction because there is no mud, and the fields drain quickly, allowing us to have outdoor units all year round. We have saved time and money by not having to line and re-line the fields constantly for our units. The turf is an excellent space for our Outride program, especially the early lessons where students are refining the basic skills of bike riding. The athletics program has been able to host multiple games simultaneously, preventing make-up competitions due to rain. Having lights allows us to have nighttime community events. We are so grateful!”
That story repeats at Albert Einstein High School, where dependable field time changes the rhythm of athletics and school life. “The addition of the turf field at Einstein has greatly benefited our athletic programs and school community,” says Athletic Director Christina Fitzpatrick. “It has significantly increased field availability and reduced maintenance challenges, allowing multiple teams to practice and compete regardless of weather conditions. Beyond athletics, the turf serves as a shared community space that supports PE classes, school events, and local youth programs. Everyone involved wins.”
Reliable, all-weather fields matter because they eliminate the most common barriers to participation: cancellations, soggy surfaces, and scheduling chaos. With consistent playing conditions and lighting for evening use, schools host PE classes, after-school practices, and community events without constant rescheduling. Coaches plan meaningful practice sessions. Additionally, schools reduce maintenance burdens, saving time that would otherwise go to re-lining fields or repairing mud damage after storms.
Walt Whitman High School benefits in the same way. With a high-quality surface in place, MSI games and club events align smoothly with Whitman’s athletics calendar and activities. Game days feel consistent. The spectator experience improves. Because the surface drains quickly and withstands frequent use, administrators approve more student and community requests.
These school-based fields help advance MSI’s mission in practical, measurable ways. We can expand capacity across Recreation, Classic, Travel, and clinics, reaching more neighborhoods with dependable locations. We can welcome more families whose schedules demand evening or weekend options. And we can keep the focus where it belongs: on building well-rounded players, lasting friendships, and a stronger community built around a shared love of soccer.
As a community-led nonprofit, MSI invests locally and prioritizes access to resources. Turf fields on school campuses ensure that the best facilities don’t remain reserved for a select few. Instead, they serve students first during the school day and then open to the community in a responsible and coordinated way after hours. This model respects school priorities and increases opportunity for kids who might otherwise lose playing time to weather, distance, or cost.
MSI remains committed to collaborating with MCPS and school leaders, ensuring these fields are a lasting benefit for our students and a vital resource for the entire community. Our vision extends beyond more soccer: we aim for soccer that is development-focused, reliable, and accessible to all. Together, we are building a future where every child finds opportunity, growth, and a sense of belonging—on and off the field.
