D.C. United has expanded its partnership with the Twinning Project by launching a two-week soccer program with the District of Columbia Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) at the Youth Services Center in Washington, D.C. The program, which began on July 27, 2026, features soccer-focused educational and physical training five days a week aimed at building confidence and life skills among youth involved in the juvenile justice system.
Soccer-Focused Cohort Led by Licensed D.C. United Coaches
The program includes a cohort of youth participating in intensive soccer training sessions led by licensed and experienced coaches from D.C. United. This initiative culminates with a graduation ceremony marking the completion of the two-week session.
Shanell Mosley, Senior Director of Community Impact and Executive Director of the D.C. United Foundation, emphasized the club’s dedication to youth development. Since initiating the partnership with the Twinning Project in August 2024, the program has positively impacted more than 100 individuals across six cohorts. This expansion reflects D.C. United’s effort to extend its reach beyond the Department of Corrections and engage youth within the juvenile justice system.
Support from Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services and Twinning Project USA
DYRS Director Sam Abed expressed pride in collaborating with D.C. United and the Twinning Project, highlighting the alignment of the program with DYRS’s mission to offer youth pathways to skill development, education, and long-term success.
Hilton Freund MBE, Chief Executive Officer of Twinning Project USA, praised the expansion, noting the significant impact of the program on participants’ confidence, resilience, teamwork, and sense of purpose. Freund underscored the importance of early intervention through sport, mentorship, and positive role models to inspire lasting change among youth at critical stages.
About the Twinning Project and Participating Organizations
The Twinning Project partners professional sports teams with custodial facilities to provide evidence-based sport, education, and employability programs that foster hope, belonging, and positive futures for incarcerated youth and individuals in custody.
DYRS operates secure detention and residential programs for justice-involved youth in the District of Columbia, supporting their reintegration into the community.
D.C. United, a founding club of Major League Soccer in 1996 and one of the most decorated U.S. teams, continues to build community impact initiatives alongside its professional soccer operations.
Maryland Sports Blog Take
D.C. United’s expanded partnership with the Twinning Project and DYRS represents a forward-thinking approach to juvenile justice rehabilitation. By combining professional sports expertise, education, and mentorship, the program aims to empower justice-involved youth with life skills and confidence. This model highlights how professional sports organizations can engage vulnerable populations effectively and contribute to safer, more supportive communities.
Source: Original report
