U.S. Soccer Foundation Honors Ken Griffin at 30th Anniversary Celebration in Miami

Griffin Catalyst Founder Ken Griffin was honored at the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s 30th Anniversary Celebration in Miami for his longstanding support of youth and community development through soccer.

The event brought together more than 500 leaders from sports, business, and entertainment in Miami Beach, where Ken received the Foundation’s prestigious #10 Award. The award honors individuals whose leadership and generosity have had an outsized impact on access to the game.

Ken was recognized for his support of a total of 100 mini-pitches in Chicago and Miami, transforming schoolyards and neighborhood spaces into safe, vibrant hubs for play and connection. These projects have expanded access to soccer and physical activity for more than 100,000 children and families.

In accepting the award, Ken reflected on the transformative power of team sports and the critical role coaches play in children’s lives, noting, “Team sports teach young people in our country the life skills they need to succeed and prosper. It’s a gift everyone should have – and we want to bring the gift of soccer to as many children as possible.”

The gathering marked three decades of the Foundation’s work advancing the health and well-being of young people in under-resourced communities and also served as the launch of the Foundation’s Soccer Will campaign, an ambitious effort to reach 10 million youth nationwide by 2030.

U.S. Women’s National Team legend Carli Lloyd presented the award, and Ken was also recognized with a surprise video tribute from Sir David Beckham.

“For more than three decades, the U.S. Soccer Foundation has worked to break down barriers to play and ensure that youth in under-resourced communities can access the game and its many benefits,” said Ed Foster-Simeon, President and CEO of the U.S. Soccer Foundation. “Ken’s leadership and support have helped turn that vision into reality in communities across Chicago and Miami.”