Expanding Access to Soccer: Black Star and Allstate’s Collaborative Initiatives

Black Star, an initiative designed to promote and foster the growth of soccer in Black communities, recently declared a multi-year collaboration with Allstate (NYSE: ALL), a reputable insurance provider. Allstate, now a Founding Partner and title sponsor, will back the Black Star ID and National Showcases, reinforcing its commitment to help safeguard the future of the game.

Black Star, a property under For Soccer, envisions strengthening the roots of the sport in Black communities and catalyzing grassroots development. “We’re investing in Black Star because we believe in the unifying power of soccer. We aim to expand access to the sport and provide an enjoyable environment for budding young players,” said Dan Keats, Allstate’s Director of Consumer Marketing and Sponsorships.

The 2023 Black Star calendar includes several high-impact initiatives such as First-Touch Youth Clinics, Allstate Black Star ID Showcases, Boyd Parker Sports Group’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities Soccer ID Camps, and Community Pickup programs. The Community Pickup programs will be held across multiple cities, including Detroit, Washington D.C., and New York City.

Ernesto Bruce, For Soccer’s Chief Executive Officer, expressed his optimism about the partnership, stating that with Allstate’s support, Black Star could continue its valuable work within communities across the United States. “We’re proud of Black Star’s achievements and excited about the opportunities this partnership brings,” Bruce said.

Black Star’s operations are led by Director Patrick Rose, along with a nine-member advisory board, possessing vast experience in professional soccer, soccer business, education, marketing, and media. This combination is a testament to Black Star’s mission to cultivate Black soccer culture, increase access to the sport, and provide player development pathways both on and off the field.

Black Star’s impact since its inception in 2021 has been significant, offering free soccer programming and reaching numerous players, coaches, and families. With plans to deepen and expand its influence, the program is poised to drive sustainable change in Black soccer communities at a national level.

The program also extends beyond soccer, seeking to foster community through storytelling, shared experiences, and capsule collections. Its 2023 advisory board includes notable figures from the world of soccer, education, marketing, and media, including former U.S. Women’s National Team star Angela Hucles, former MLS and U.S. Men’s National Team star Cobi Jones, and current USMNT professional player Mark McKenzie, to name a few.

For more information about Black Star’s work and registration, visit their official website and follow their social media channels on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

PR Newswire. (2023, July 11). Black Star and Allstate Team Up for a Multiyear Partnership Across the US.

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