Soccer Growth in the U.S. Inspired by the 2026 World Cup and JT Batson’s Efforts

Sports often create lasting memories, engrained by significant games or victories shared with friends and family. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, JT Batson, CEO and Secretary-General of the U.S. Soccer Federation, reflects on his first soccer experiences. He recalls his formative days playing at the YMCA in Augusta, Georgia.

“My earliest memory was playing at the YMCA where I grew up in Augusta, Georgia. I remember the hot jerseys; technology wasn’t advanced then. Our parents knew baseball, football, and basketball, not soccer,” he shared with Newsweek.

Those initial encounters shaped his career. Augusta College, which became Augusta University, had a soccer team of international players who became local coaches. This exposure to genuine soccer influenced Batson’s path.

Batson’s early sporting experiences were varied, favoring soccer due to better coaching and peer interest.

“I played baseball, basketball, tennis, golf. I stuck with soccer because the coaches were better, I enjoyed it more, and friends played it. Those coaches’ influence was profound,” he explained.

World Class Opportunity

The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, highlights discussions on American soccer. Batson emphasizes performance goals for the men’s team, stressing the importance of soccer’s growth in the U.S.

“We’re focused on this World Cup being a catalyst for millions more Americans playing soccer,” said Batson.

Soccer’s appeal lies in its simplicity. A ball suffices for a game, yet other U.S. sports dominate public spaces.

“In parks, it’s basketball hoops you see, encouraging basketball’s popularity. We’re changing that with the Soccer at Schools initiative, partnering with Bank of America to bring soccer to every U.S. school,” Batson explained.

The initiative aims for accessibility, ensuring children have safe spaces for soccer, whether in gyms or on city courts.

Batson cites diversity in national teams as a point of pride, fostering connection with fans and communities.

Coaching’s Role

Coaching plays a pivotal role in soccer’s expansion in the U.S.

“Coaching is crucial for U.S. Soccer. We’re responsible for coaching education, offering digital and in-person programs for all levels,” Batson added.

Investment in coaching is vital to achieving soccer goals and reaching broader audiences.

Ensuring Access and Affordability

The 2026 World Cup faces scrutiny over accessibility and affordability. There’s a focus on including all fans through creative initiatives.

“With over 100 million soccer fans in the U.S., many can’t attend games. We’re ensuring they engage through FanFests and community events nationwide,” Batson shared.

Efforts include community events, extended bar hours, and leveraging media to connect fans with the World Cup.

Personal connections to soccer, like watching the 1990 World Cup with friends, drive efforts to foster communal experiences.

On-the-Field Expectations

Success in soccer demands tangible results. U.S. Soccer aims for victory beyond mere participation.

“Our goals prioritize winning World Cups. We’ve achieved it with women’s teams and aspire to do it across all teams,” Batson noted.

The strategies include bolstering infrastructure and pathways for players, with recent hires of international coaches Mauricio Pochettino and Emma Hayes leading national teams.

“Emma and Mauricio inspire teams. They champion youth development and coaching education, aligning with U.S. Soccer’s vision,” Batson explained.

Defining Success

Success for U.S. Soccer involves community engagement and future impacts.

“Success on the field means earning Americans’ belief and pride. This World Cup’s legacy will drive soccer growth and sustained interest in the coming years,” Batson stated.

The ambition is that this event will inspire more participation and investment, fostering soccer’s expansion across the nation.