The Play Ball Foundation, a privately funded nonprofit that provides free, school-based intramural sports for middle school students in Gateway Cities across Massachusetts, announced its newest partnership with Chelsea Public Schools — marking a major milestone in the organization’s expansion for the 2025–2026 school year.
The expansion means that hundreds of Chelsea middle schoolers will now have the opportunity to play on a team, wear a uniform, and experience the belonging that comes with organized athletics — often for the very first time.
“Chelsea is a proud, tight-knit community where kids show up for one another,” said Katie Small, Executive Director of the Play Ball Foundation. “We’re thrilled to partner with the district to bring the joy and power of sports to even more middle schoolers. Every student deserves the chance to play — regardless of background, neighborhood, or circumstance — and this partnership helps make that a reality.”
Through the new partnership, Play Ball will fund after-school sports leagues for Chelsea’s middle schools, including support for coaches, equipment, uniforms, and transportation. The program will launch with soccer and basketball, two of the most popular sports among Chelsea’s youth.
“This partnership with Play Ball continues to support one of our school district’s strategic priorities to increase access to engaging and enriching opportunities for all students,” commented Dr. Almudena (Almi) G. Abeyta, Chelsea Public Schools Superintendent. “We are grateful to be teaming up with Play Ball to expand opportunities like these for our middle school students, which will help them grow academically, socially and emotionally.”
The expansion into Chelsea builds on Play Ball’s growing statewide presence — now serving more than 8,000 middle school students across 11 Gateway Cities, including Boston, Lawrence, Holyoke, New Bedford, Lynn, Salem, Methuen, Quincy, Taunton, Chicopee, and now Chelsea.
“This is what growth with purpose looks like,” said Small. “Our vision is simple: every middle schooler in Massachusetts should have the opportunity to play — to move, to belong, and to thrive.”
Founded in 2006, the Play Ball Foundation partners with public school districts across Massachusetts to provide access to free, school-based sports leagues for middle school students. By funding coaches, equipment, uniforms, and transportation, Play Ball ensures that thousands of students in Gateway Cities can experience the connection, confidence, and joy that come from being part of a team. Learn more at www.playballfoundation.org.