Grow Her Game soccer initiative launched by Scotts, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation, Columbus Crew, Every Kid Sports and Columbus Recreation and Parks

COLUMBUS, OH — July 7, 2026 — Scotts, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation, the Columbus Crew, Every Kid Sports and Columbus Recreation and Parks Department today announced the launch of Grow Her Game, a transformative soccer initiative for young girls in Columbus, Ohio.

Focused on girls ages 4 to 7, Grow Her Game will foster a lifelong love for sports and outdoor play during early childhood by providing vital financial assistance to local, income-eligible families seeking to participate in Columbus Recreation and Parks Department Fall 2026 Girls Soccer League’s Tiny Tots and Pee-Wee divisions. The assistance will remove the financial barrier to participation by covering the registration fees for up to 400 girls.

In addition, donations of soccer goals, soccer socks, soccer balls and goalie gloves will benefit all girls participating in the league’s Tiny Tot and Pee-Wee divisions. The season will run from September 12 to October 17. At the conclusion of the season, the players will be invited to an exclusive soccer clinic and celebration on the pitch at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field hosted by the Columbus Crew.

Partner Perspectives

Funding, donations and support for Grow Her Game are being provided by the Scotts lawn brand, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation, the Columbus Crew, Every Kid Sports and Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. Grow Her Game complements the Scotts Keep It Real movement and its multi-year partnership with Every Kid Sports.

"Through the power of play, kids are able to develop essential character traits, leadership skills and healthy lifestyles. But for many young girls, these types of outdoor activities are out of reach,” said Katherine Dickens, director of corporate responsibility and impact for ScottsMiracle-Gro. "Grow Her Game aims to change this reality by removing financial obstacles and enabling young girls to share in the benefits of a team sport within a fun, safe and natural environment.”

"Making soccer more accessible has always been an important part of the Columbus Crew's mission," said Dan Lentz, vice president of corporate partnerships for the Columbus Crew. "When more kids have the opportunity to play, our communities are stronger and the future of the game is brighter. We're proud to work alongside Scotts to help more girls take their first steps onto the field."Â

“Supporting life through access to youth sports is our mission, and Grow Her Game is exactly the kind of initiative we're proud to be part of," said Eleana Fanaika, executive director at Every Kid Sports. “By pairing Columbus Recreation and Parks’ community infrastructure with our digital Every Kid Sports Pass application, we are expanding access to vital financial aid that gets more kids in the game.”

“It’s important to give opportunities for every child to participate in sports,” said Bernita A. Reese, M.S., CPRP, director of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. “This partnership offers wellness through activity while introducing self-esteem and leadership.”

Program & Registration Details

Age Divisions: Tiny Tot (ages 4–5) and Pee-Wee (ages 6–7).

Venues & Locations: Far East, Westgate and Whetstone community centers.

Key Dates:

* <strong>Registration Deadline:</strong> Closes July 24, 2026 (or until capacity is reached).

* <strong>Season Kickoff:</strong> Week of September 12, 2026.

* <strong>End-of-Season Celebration & Clinic:</strong> October 15, 2026, at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field.

Fall Soccer Registration: Sign up at the Girls Soccer League Registration page.

Financial Assistance: Confirm eligibility and apply at the Every Kid Sports Pass site or by scanning QR codes located at the Far East, Westgate, and Whetstone community centers.