The founders of Street Soccer USA — a nonprofit that uses the beautiful game to empower underserved communities — discuss the music that’s shaped their life and work.
Full Episode
The Athlete’s Playlist is back with another episode exploring the intersection of sports and music. Here, we chat with Lawrence and Rob Cann, two brothers who founded the nonprofit Street Soccer USA (SSUSA). From modest beginnings (they started in Charlotte, NC with a single team of players battling homelessness), the nonprofit has expanded nationwide with chapters in 16 cities, including Seattle.
SSUSA now provides youth programs for kids who wouldn’t otherwise get to play, organizes teams and tournaments for people who’ve experienced homelessness, and builds street soccer fields in low-income areas. Along the way, they’ve gained the support of sports icons including Clint Dempsey, Kyle Martinho, Hope Solo, Steve Nash and more.
Former D1 college soccer players in their own right, Lawrence and Rob discuss their favorite tunes and the work they’re doing in the soccer community. Give it a listen and be sure to check out the SSUSA website, where you can get involved and help support the cause.
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Time Stamps
Start – 18:00: Growing up in Virginia // Sibling wrestling matches // Street soccer & youth development
18:00 – 28:30: Johnny Cash as inspiration // Challenges of D1 competition // Rediscovering love of soccer
30:30 – 45:00: Starting SSUSA in a soup kitchen // Detained en route to Homeless World Cup
42:30 – End: K’naan’s connection with refugee players // Building street soccer fields // Attempting to nutmeg Steve Nash
Highlights
Getting detained en route to Homeless World Cup
A unique post-game celebration song
K’naan’s connection to refugee players