TAMPA – The Tampa Bay Sun Foundation is launching a new season of free soccer clinics across Tampa Bay, thanks to support from Tampa Electric.
Kids can turn their enthusiasm for soccer into opportunities to get active, learn skills, and create friendships through 19 free programs that develop character on the field. TECO’s support also powers Gear Goals, a year-round effort to get quality soccer gear into the hands of kids who need it.
“Soccer gives kids something powerful. It’s a sense of belonging and a little more confidence every time they step on the field,” said Rachel Jolley, director of the Tampa Bay Sun Foundation. “Thanks to TECO’s support, we get to share that fantastic feeling with even more kids across Tampa Bay this year.”
Last season, in the first year with TECO’s support, Tampa Bay Sun Foundation clinics reached 1,292 children.
Through the spring of 2027, TECO’s sponsorship will support:
- 10 Energize the Bay Youth Clinics: open to girls and boys ages 7 to 13 at fields throughout Tampa Bay, including Suncoast Credit Union Field.
- 6 Shine Soccer Clinics: bringing the game to girls and boys at Title I schools and youth-focused community organizations.
- 3 Rise Up Soccer Club School Sessions: four-week partnered program for girls at Title I schools, blending soccer education with leadership and life skills.
- Gear Goals: ongoing, year-round program that pairs coaches, players and teams in Tampa Bay with the soccer gear they need to participate.
Every clinic includes a free Tampa Bay Sun Foundation x TECO jersey. Kids can collect three different jerseys by attending three different clinics.
Players from Tampa Bay Sun FC will take part in some of the clinics. All programs are led by U.S. Soccer Licensed Coaches with support from the foundation’s team of volunteers, the Sunshine Squad.
“At TECO, we believe in investing in the communities we serve and that means investing in the next generation,” said Stephanie Smith, vice president of state and regional affairs at TECO. “These programs give kids a place to build friendships, stay active and grow as people, whether it’s in the classroom or on the field.”
