Families, youth, and community members throughout Pella have the chance to enjoy expanded opportunities to participate in soccer and other recreational activities, thanks to a newly installed mini pitch at Lincoln Elementary.

The new facility, a Mini-Pitch System designed and built by Musco Lighting, was installed through a community partnership with Kick It Forward—a Des Moines-based non-profit organization—and made possible as a result of support from individual and corporate donors. A celebration was held Wednesday afternoon with several stakeholders in the project at Lincoln Elementary.

Matt Sahag, founder of Kick It Forward, says the project was initiated in response to a need for expanding recreational opportunities and ensuring access to high-quality facilities within walking distance of families. The Mini-Pitch System at Lincoln Elementary will be free for community use, and will be utilized by the school throughout school days.

“This mini pitch will be a great addition to Pella and improve access to recreational facilities for a lot of families,” said Sahag. “And it wouldn’t have been possible without the overwhelming support of the community and generous donors. This is a partnership we’re really proud to be a part of.”

Developed in partnership with the U.S. Soccer Foundation, the Mini-Pitch System includes fencing, goals, benches, lockable storage, LED lighting, and ADA-compliant access.

The new facility at Lincoln Elementary is one of 22 mini pitches that have been or will be installed throughout Iowa this year, as part of Kick It Forward’s campaign to expand access and promote youth participation in soccer. Another Mini-Pitch System is being considered for installation at Pella Christian.