Episode #44: Portland Community FC: Part 1 - Welcome back to a very special two-part episode of "For The Love of Sport." Hosts Simon and Marie chat with Kaig Lightner, the mind behind Portland Community Football Club (PCFC). Founded in 2012 to remove barriers to competitive athletic training and create a supportive environment for all youth, PCFC stands out as a beacon of inclusivity and empowerment.

Kaig shares insights into PCFC's programs, highlighting their efforts to help families flourish in soccer despite financial constraints. Hear about PCFC's innovative approaches to creating a safe and brave space for youth, fostering skills, confidence, and emotional support. Stay tuned for part 2 of this episode next week, when we sit down with JD Penilton, the coaching program manager at PCFC!

For the Love of Sport covers and celebrates the entire world of youth sports, from coaches and pro athletes sharing their experiences to the admins and volunteers who keep leagues running. Each episode is a celebration of talents, experiences, and, of course, youth athletes. Expect to laugh as much as you’ll learn with our hosts, Marie and Simon.

Here are the three key takeaways from the episode:

1. Embracing Inclusivity in Youth Sports

Kaig Lightner’s story is a powerful example of how inclusivity can transform the youth sports landscape. As a queer trans person, Kaig understands the challenges of finding a place to belong. He shares how Portland Community FC is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where every child, regardless of their background, can participate in soccer. This commitment includes providing free uniforms and equipment, and removing financial barriers.

2. The Transformative Power of Accessible Soccer Programs

Kaig recounts the pivotal moment that led to the founding of PCFC – realizing that many passionate young soccer players were missing out on the sport due to financial constraints. By offering programs with minimal costs and providing the necessary equipment, PCFC ensures that every child can enjoy and benefit from playing soccer. This model promotes physical activity and teaches valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience.

3. Leveraging Community Support for Sustainable Growth

Building and sustaining an organization like PCFC requires strategic community support and effective fundraising. Kaig highlighted how PCFC has grown from a small, grassroots initiative to a well-respected club with a substantial budget. This growth was made possible through a combination of grants, individual donations, and community partnerships. Kaig’s story underscores the importance of building strong relationships within the community and continuously seeking diverse funding sources.

“We don’t ask questions. We don’t have people fill out forms. If a kid needs cleats or shin guards, we provide them.” – Kaig Lightner

Listen to the full episodes

Part One:

Part Two:

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