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Our Story
Started on the Sidelines. Built for the Long Game.
UYSA didn't come from a grant application or a boardroom strategy session. It came from coaches and parents who kept watching kids get left out — and decided enough was enough.
Mission
Our Mission
To provide accessible, inclusive, and affordable youth sports and enrichment opportunities that empower young people to become confident athletes, responsible citizens, and future leaders — starting right here in Massachusetts.
Vision
Our Vision
To become one of New England's premier nonprofit youth sports organizations — building healthier communities, stronger families, and the next generation of leaders through athletics, mentorship, and education.
The Origin Story
Born From a Calling, Built to Last
UYSA didn't start in a boardroom — it started on the sidelines. A group of coaches, parents, and community leaders in Massachusetts kept seeing the same thing: talented kids who couldn't play because their families couldn't afford it. That was unacceptable. So they did something about it. In 2026, Urban Youth Sports Association was incorporated as a Massachusetts 501(c)(3) nonprofit with one non-negotiable rule: no child gets left out because of money. We hit the ground running — launching programs, building partnerships with schools and municipalities, and establishing a scholarship fund from day one. We are just getting started, and the momentum is real.
UYSA incorporated as a Massachusetts 501(c)(3) nonprofit
Programs launched: Basketball, Soccer, Track & Field, Flag Football, and more
Scholarship fund established — no child turned away for financial reasons
Partnerships formed with local schools, municipalities, and community centers
Expanding across New England to reach every child who needs us
What We Stand For
Our Core Values
Integrity
We do the right thing — on the field and off.
Inclusion
Every child is welcome, regardless of ability or background.
Leadership
We develop leaders who lift others as they rise.
Teamwork
Together we accomplish more than any one of us can alone.
Excellence
We hold ourselves to the highest standard in everything we do.
Community
We are rooted in the neighborhoods we serve.
Accountability
We own our actions and honor our commitments.
Opportunity
We open doors that were previously closed.
Why UYSA Is Different
We Don't Just Talk About Access. We Deliver It.
A lot of organizations say they serve underserved youth. Here's what actually sets UYSA apart.
No Financial Barrier — Ever
We have never turned a child away for inability to pay. Full and partial scholarships are available to every family that needs one. No application shame, no waitlists.
17+ Programs Under One Roof
From basketball and soccer to leadership academies and after-school mentorship — we are a full-service youth development organization, not a single-sport league.
Community-First, Always
Our board, coaches, and volunteers are from the communities we serve. We are not outsiders coming in to help — we are neighbors building something together.
The People Behind the Mission
Our Leadership Team
Nicole Coss
President, Board of Directors
Nicole provides strategic leadership for UYSA, overseeing organizational growth, community partnerships, and fundraising initiatives. She ensures the organization fulfills its mission of expanding access to youth sports across Massachusetts.
Rosa Vargas
Vice President, Board of Directors
Rosa supports organizational leadership, community outreach, and volunteer engagement. She assists with strategic planning and board initiatives that advance UYSA's reach and impact throughout New England.
Hector Santiago
Treasurer, Board of Directors
Hector oversees UYSA's financial stewardship, budgeting, grant compliance, and fiscal transparency. His leadership ensures the organization's long-term financial sustainability and responsible use of donor funds.
Nijah Adams
Secretary, Board of Directors
Nijah maintains UYSA's corporate records, board documentation, and governance compliance. She leads organizational administration and contributes to strategic planning initiatives that shape the organization's future.
Got Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Join the UYSA Family
Whether you want to register a child, volunteer your time, or invest in our mission — there's a place for you here.