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Park board approves no-cost MOU with Hope Soccer 2026 to pilot mini-pitches
Summary
The Spokane Park Board approved a no-cost memorandum of understanding with Hope Soccer 2026 to install modular artificial "mini pitch" surfacing on existing, damaged sport courts and provide free youth programming. Installation costs are covered by sponsors; Hope Soccer will run clinics and community outreach focused on elementary-age children.
The Spokane Park Board voted to approve a no-cost memorandum of understanding with Hope Soccer 2026 to install and operate modular "mini pitch" surfacing on select out-of-service sport courts and provide free soccer-based programming for youth.
Nick (Park staff) described the mini pitch product as an interlocking artificial turf tile that can be laid over existing damaged courts to restore playability without full reconstruction. He said sponsors, including Musco Lighting, would cover installation costs estimated at about $100,000 per site, and Hope Soccer would provide coaching and outreach at no cost to the parks department.
Gabriel, who identified himself as president of Hope Soccer 2026, told the board the organization uses soccer to connect children to mentoring, life skills and community services and emphasized that programming would be free. "We are so excited for Spokane, seeing how soccer is growing," Gabriel said during the presentation. A Hope Soccer board member added the program has worked with orphans and underserved youth internationally and ties participation to school performance in previous projects.
Staff and board members discussed candidate locations, including Friendship and Grant Park, with Mission Park also considered but judged complicated by existing racket-sport demand. Board members asked about age ranges; Hope Soccer representatives said their programs typically work with children about 10 and up but can be adapted for younger elementary participants.
The memorandum establishes a pilot to convert one out-of-service court at a selected site, includes coordination language with Parks recreation staff, and contemplates a renewable term (committee recommended review every two years with an option to renew up to 10 years). The board approved the MOU by voice vote; the motion carried unanimously.
The agreement is no-cost to the parks department. Staff said minor, site-specific repairs (sealed cracks, basic prep) could be addressed by parks if needed before installation. Hope Soccer representatives said they plan to offer clinics, invite local partners (police, fire, schools) and target neighborhoods with limited access to free youth sports.
