World Cup Leaves Harrison a New Mini Soccer Field

A new mini soccer field at Harrison High School will give students, families, and athletes a permanent place to play, extending the community impact of the 2026 FIFA World Cup beyond the tournament.

The space, known as a “mini pitch,” was installed at no cost to the community through a collaboration between PSEG, the NYNJ Host Committee, and the U.S. Soccer Foundation. It is part of an effort to bring new play spaces to communities across the region following the World Cup, which held matches in the area.

Members of the boys’ and girls’ soccer teams at Harrison High School took part in a ceremonial first kick to mark the grand opening. The field will be used by students, athletic teams, and physical education programs.

“The success of this World Cup should be measured not only by what we delivered during the tournament, but by what it leaves behind,” said Alex Lasry, CEO of the NYNJ Host Committee. “This mini pitch gives young people in Harrison a place to play, compete and come together for years to come.”

Harrison Superintendent of Schools Dr. Maureen Kroog said the field would be a valuable resource for students. “It will be a valuable resource for our student-athletes and physical education programs, while also helping foster teamwork, wellness and school pride,” she said.

Harrison Mayor James Fife thanked the partners for bringing the project to the town. “Projects like this happen when local organizations and community partners work together,” he said.

“At the U.S. Soccer Foundation, we believe every child deserves a safe place to play, be active and build confidence through sport,” said Ed Foster-Simeon, the foundation’s president and CEO.