ABOUT US
CLEATS 901 is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering youths through soccer by helping individuals and families overcome simple barriers that might keep a child from playing.
What does that mean?
We want to do what we can to make sure that children are not excluded from playing soccer because they don’t have access to soccer cleats, shinguards, soccer balls, other equipment, and sometimes the funds to participate on a team.
Why soccer?
We believe that soccer is a great developmental activity for children to learn skills that are applicable both on and off the pitch. Soccer teaches decision making, adaptive thinking, teamwork, and self-reliance. Plus, it’s a whole lot of fun.
How do you do it?
We rely on fundraising and equipment donations. While we wish we could accept all donations, we need to make sure the equipment is either new or gently used and still in good condition for the final recipients. Our fundraising results go to either buying new needed equipment or to help individuals pay for team fees.
Do you take other clothing donations?
Yes! Our main focus is soccer equipment, but we really try to help everyone. If you have gently used clothing that is non-soccer related, that’s ok too. We work closely with a clothes closet to help people and families of all ages who would be appreciative of your donations. So please, contact us and we’ll put your clothes to good use.
OUR MISSION
To empower children and teens with the ability to learn, love and play the great game of soccer while gaining valuable life lessons through sport.
Ches Linebarier coaching a youth soccer team.
Our Goals
Eliminate barriers for individuals by providing the necessary equipment needed to successfully participate in soccer on a team.
Create a social impact that positively affects children, families, and communities around soccer.
Spread as much love and positivity through everything we do to everyone we can.
OUR HISTORY
CLEATS began as a memorial 3v3 soccer tournament and fundraiser in Memphis, Tennessee in June of 2019. It was founded by the Linebarier family in the memory of Chester “Ches” Ray Linebarier III after his passing on May 24, 2018. The idea for the tournament came from Ches’ friends and family with the intention of carrying on his love for the game and bringing his deeply rooted passion back to the community to which he was so devoted. The aim of the tournament was to bring people together under a common love of soccer and life, encouraging positivity among all those who were involved, with a special focus on bringing Ches’s vision and joy to those who are less fortunate. After the first tournament, we knew we could do a bit more and do it annually. Since then, we have continued to work towards spreading the love for the game and giving back to the community.