Opening of RAVE Mini-Pitch at Chief Leschi Schools - Another Step Forward in Buildup to FIFA World Cup 2026
Representatives from the Puyallup Tribe of Indians (PTOI), Seattle Sounders FC, RAVE Foundation and the local organizing committee planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026TM gathered at that the Tribes’ Chief Leschi School today to celebrate the opening of a new mini pitch– part of RAVE Foundation’s “52x26” commitment to constructing 52 new playing fields statewide before kickoff in 2026.
While the opening of the new pitch is a celebration for the community– and the kids who will enjoy it– the larger significance is the growing role of PTOI in the state’s soccer community. The Tribe is a Legacy Supporter to the Seattle FWC 26 Committee – the local leadership team charged with planning and hosting six matches that will be played in Seattle during the tournament.
"We are excited not only for the next generation of youth who will enjoy this incredible new soccer pitch, but also for the partnership in bringing the FIFA World Cup to our region,” said Bill Sterud, Chairman of the Puyallup Tribal Council. “We are committed to educating visitors and viewers about our history, culture, and future in this region, and also creating a lasting legacy for generations to come – on and off the field. Today is one more step forward in this journey.”
The RAVE mini-pitch, which broke ground in May, is the 23rd to open, with several more nearing completion ensuring that RAVE reaches its goal of 26 fields by 2026 early. To that end, RAVE has announced a commitment to 26 MORE Fields throughout Washington by 2026. While each mini pitch is designed to encourage free play and to provide access to sport in historically underrepresented communities, the Chief Leschi pitch is especially rewarding for the Foundation.
“We are proud of our work throughout the state to provide accessible, inclusive, and fun places for kids to engage with soccer, improve their health and confidence, and gather with other young people,” said Ashley Fosberg, Executive Director of RAVE Foundation. “Here at Chief Leschi, we are furthering Sounders FC’s commitment to Defend the Right to Play while deepening our commitment to investing in Native Communities. We’re proud to showcase the incredible leadership of PTOI in advancing soccer and excitement to the FIFA World Cup to communities across the state.”
The unique role the tribe is playing in partnership with Seattle’s host committee is reflected in both the mini-pitch opening, and the larger visibility and integration of PTOI into statewide planning efforts.
“It’s an honor to work with the Puyallup Tribe to open this field and to continue our work together to define and implement a legacy that focuses on children, culture, sustainability, accessibility, human rights, and community,” said Peter Tomozawa, CEO of Seattle FWC26. “Part of this legacy is working with RAVE Foundation to bring the game to people and places throughout Washington. Next steps are to move beyond the pitch to enhance the lives and health of every community touched by the games– showing the world our commitment to leaving Washington’s communities better off for the future.”
