BEST PRACTICE: 'Get on the bus' - Empowering Communities through Sport
Institute for Youth Sports Leaders (IYSL)
Elevating the youth sports experience, one leader and one organization at a time.
Featured Youth Sports Clubs
Ellicott City Soccer Club (MD), Ballistic United Soccer Club (CA), Sky Soccer Club (KY), United PDX Soccer Club (OR), Hillsborough Rush (OR).
Featured Leader
Tim Ryerson , Creator of GET ON THE BUS (GOTB) & Associate Executive Director, Mclean Youth Soccer (VA).
Abstract
In 2018, Tim Ryerson launched the ‘Get On the Bus’, (GOTB), aimed at supporting 4th and 5th grade students in underserved communities. This innovative program offers a comprehensive package including soccer coaching, life skills sessions, homework help, healthy snacks, and transportation to and from the soccer field. With a vision to reach 10,000 youth participants by the FIFA World Cup in 2026, GOTB has garnered participation from prominent clubs across the USA.
Why ‘Get on the Bus’ is a Best Practice Example
Institute for Youth Sports Leaders (IYSL) recognizes Ellicott City, Ballistic United, Sky Soccer Club, United PDX, and Hillsborough Rush for best practice. GOTB supports the desire of club executives to give back to society while benefiting their organizations. By aligning with the philanthropic goals outlined in club missions, GOTB attracts goodwill, sponsorship interest, and revenue from player registrations. Moreover, it provides access to a diverse player pool, fosters community engagement, and offers valuable life lessons in volunteering.
Ensuring Accessibility and Inclusivity
GOTB prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity by targeting participants from Title I schools and allocating $500 per participant for uniforms and equipment. Recognizing transportation as a significant barrier for underserved communities, the program collaborates with schools to arrange bus transportation for students to training and game locations. Additionally, employing teachers and coaches to supervise the program further enhances inclusivity.
Program Funding
Initially self-funded by Ellicott City Soccer Club members, GOTB has received substantial support from local businesses, sponsors, and grants such as the United States Soccer Federation’s ‘Innovate to Grow’ grant. Tim Ryerson’s proactive approach has help to secure grant funding from USSF for eight state associations (Nevada, Nevada, California North, California South, Connecticut, Oregon, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, and Washington) while ongoing efforts aim to tap into school funding opportunities available to Title 1 institutions. Additional funding sources include individual donations, club fundraising, program sponsors and local, regional and national corporate giving.
Measuring Impact
While the positive impact of GOTB on participants is evident, the program is actively developing comprehensive metrics to measure its influence on academic performance, physical health, and socio-emotional development. Collaborating with schools, GOTB aims to track indicators such as attendance, grades, and behavior, providing valuable insights into the program’s effectiveness. Early success stories of high school graduates volunteering as coaches highlight the lasting impact of the initiative.
Program Summary
Despite initial challenges in gaining recognition and support, Tim Ryerson’s perseverance has propelled GOTB into a national initiative with widespread interest and participation. With a vision to expand across all states in the USA and beyond, GOTB welcomes collaboration from individuals and organizations committed to making a difference in the lives of young athletes from underserved communities. Through soccer, GOTB not only nurtures athletic talent but also empowers communities, embodying the spirit of inclusivity and social responsibility in youth sports.
Best Practice Alignment
The adoption of GOTB by the previously mentioned clubs aligns with success factor #18 (out of 60) – The organization operates in partnership with local communities and schools.
Get Involved
Start with comparing your club to 60 best practices – access to IYSL Best Practice Analysis Tool is free – www.youthsportsleaders.com
Get recognized
Contact David Newbery if you have an example of best practice and are willing to share your story of success with the youth sports community. [email protected]
More Youth Sports Best Practice Articles:
Contact Tim
Email: [email protected] // Website: www.gotbsoccer.org
‘Get on the Bus’ leaders of note: The following individuals and organizations have been fundamentally important to funding and programming 'Get on the Bus'.
Leveraging partnerships enhances access & opportunities for kids in sports ?? As Plato said, nurturing the body & mind sets the foundation for a great society. #YouthSports #CommunityBuilding
Executive Director, McLean Youth Soccer
6 个月It's great to have Tim as a member of the McLean YS team!
Husband, father and mentor with a genuine interest in improving youth sports
7 个月Congrats Tim Ryerson and entire Get on the Bus family for making such a special impact in your communities. Using Soccer to changes lives! Excited to see the next club(s) that joins the mission!
Incredibly impactful work Tim Ryerson!