Hilltop Tigers Youth Soccer Program Paused Amid Budget Cuts
Columbus, Ohio — The future of the Hilltop Tigers Youth Soccer program is uncertain after budget cuts forced MY Project USA to temporarily suspend operations. The soccer initiative has served as a safe haven for more than 150 children in the Hilltop area, protecting them from street violence, drugs, and gang involvement.
Since its launch eight years ago, the program has become a beacon of hope for underserved youth, providing athletic training, leadership development, mentorship, and educational support. Some players have even progressed to the Columbus Crew Academy, earning opportunities to thrive both on and off the field.
“The Hilltop Tigers are more than just a soccer team, they are a family,” said Zerqa Abid, Executive Director of MY Project USA. “This pause is heartbreaking, but necessary given the severe funding challenges we are facing.”
The nonprofit is now prioritizing basic needs such as food distribution, academic programs, and healthcare services which serve the same families whose children are part of the Tigers team. With limited funding from city, state, and federal levels, tough decisions had to be made.
The cost to run the program is approximately $230,000 annually, covering coaches’ salaries, indoor facility rentals, transportation, and meals. By comparison, Franklin County reportedly spends over $185,000 per year to incarcerate one youth a figure that underscores the preventative value of the Hilltop Tigers Youth Soccer initiative.
Coach Bashir Ahmed, who has been a mentor to many players, shared concerns about the ripple effects of halting the program. “Without the Tigers, we risk losing these kids to the streets. This team provides purpose, discipline, and a consistent support system.”
Despite the setback, MY Project USA is actively seeking new funding through grants and community donations to resume the program as soon as possible.
“We are not giving up,” Abid said. “We are committed to bringing back Hilltop Tigers Youth Soccer and we need the community’s support to do it.”
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