ALLENTOWN, NJ & CHESTER, PA — Major League Soccer (MLS) coach Jim Curtin has been appointed the “National Sports Ambassador” for Law Enforcement Against Drugs & Violence (L.E.A.D.), an organization dedicated to educating youth on the perils of drugs and violence. This partnership marks a significant step in leveraging the influence of sports figures to foster positive community change.
Curtin, known for his strategic acumen on the soccer field, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to youth development to his new role with L.E.A.D. As the head coach of the Philadelphia Union, Curtin has been instrumental in guiding young athletes, making him an ideal figure to champion the cause of drug and violence prevention among children.
Nick DeMauro, CEO of L.E.A.D., praised Curtin’s appointment, noting his exemplary leadership qualities and relatability to the demographic targeted by the program. “Jim’s ability to both work with children and his respect for law enforcement make him the perfect person to lend support to our program,” DeMauro stated. This collaboration aims to amplify the reach and impact of L.E.A.D.’s educational efforts, which span across 45 states and are delivered by over 5000 trained instructors.
L.E.A.D.’s curriculum, designed to be taught over a 10-week period, focuses on empowering K-12 students to make informed decisions without resorting to drugs or violence. The program’s dual emphasis on “On The Street” and “In The Classroom” initiatives seeks to strengthen the bond between law enforcement and communities, fostering a safer environment for youth.
Curtin’s journey from a standout athlete at Villanova University to a celebrated MLS coach underscores his dedication and passion for soccer. His transition from player to coach has seen him become one of the most respected figures in North American soccer, earning the MLS Coach of the Year award in both 2020 and 2022. Under his leadership, the Philadelphia Union clinched their first major trophy, the Supporters’ Shield, for the best regular-season record in 2020.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Curtin highlighted the importance of educating young people about the dangers of drugs and violence. “You can’t argue with the benefits of teaching young children about the dangers of drugs and violence, and I look forward to using my platform in the MLS to spread the word,” Curtin said. He also pointed out the potential for learning from L.E.A.D.’s curriculum across the league, emphasizing the collective effort to safeguard the well-being of young fans and athletes alike.
This partnership between Curtin and L.E.A.D. represents a novel approach to addressing critical societal issues through the lens of sports. By harnessing the influence and visibility of sports figures like Curtin, L.E.A.D. aims to engage and educate a broader audience, ultimately contributing to the creation of healthier, violence-free communities. As Curtin steps into his role as National Sports Ambassador, his commitment to youth development and community betterment is set to inspire positive change both on and off the soccer field.
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