Joy of the People Youth Soccer Programs

Joy of the People Youth Soccer Programs offers soccer free play, soccer, futsal, leagues, skills programs, seasonal skills, seasonal leagues, and summer camps. The program also offers no cost, fun, free play almost every day, with programs available for all kids, including players from other clubs. There are no tryouts for the club soccer program called Rice & Beans.

Since 2009, Joy of the People Youth Soccer Programs has operated as a Non-Profit 501(c)(3). In 2009, Joy of the People partnered with the City of St. Paul to take over the running of the South Saint Anthony Rec Center. The organization’s mission is to support the idea of play as an important part of a child's development, to build small soccer spaces for kids to play, to serve disadvantaged youth, and to build community spirit. Joy of the People promotes the idea of soccer free play as a way to build healthy kids and communities, and its vision is to grow a safer, healthier, more imaginative, inclusive youth sports experience and scale it to the world. The club is the only club in Minnesota with 2 National Championships, and 2022 NFPL National MVP Bennett Kouamé played for the club. Stated values include people first, evidence-based, informed best practice, healthy community begets healthy development, respect of others, inclusiveness, and joy. All families have to do to get started is fill out a waiver.

Last updated June 27, 2026.