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Bringing the Game to Gary Elementary School

Chicago, IL, USA

About the project

At Gary Elementary School in Chicago, a SoccerGround Portable Mini-Pitch was temporarily installed to create an exciting and energetic play space for students and the local community. This solid, modular system brought the feel of a professional soccer environment right to the schoolyard—even if just for a short time.

Modular, Durable, and Game-Ready

The non-inflatable design features interlocking rebound boards, a turf playing surface, and netting to keep the ball in play. Set up quickly and securely, the mini-pitch measured approximately 60 by 40 feet, perfect for fast-paced 3v3 or 4v4 matches. It provided a realistic, fun, and safe environment for soccer without needing permanent construction.

Students Take the Lead

During the time it was on-site, the pitch became a hub of activity. From recess scrimmages to PE drills and after-school games, students took full advantage of the opportunity to play in a real game setting. The structure encouraged active participation, teamwork, and fun movement in a way that energized the entire school environment.

Community Comes Together

Beyond the school day, the pitch also hosted weekend events and community programming. Local groups and volunteers organized skill-building sessions and casual games, inviting kids and families from the neighborhood to join in. The setup showed how easily a temporary court can bring people together around sport.

A Lasting Impression

Although temporary, the mini-pitch made a big impact. It demonstrated how a portable solution can create meaningful play experiences and bring soccer into spaces that don’t usually have access. For students at Gary Elementary, it wasn’t just a pitch, it was a playground, a team builder, and a place to grow.

Product info: SoccerGround Portable 21 x 13m, Goals: 3 x 2m