A New Era for Seattle SCORES

Seattle SCORES is entering an exciting new chapter, growing its programs and reaching more Poet-Athletes just as Seattle prepares to welcome the world for the 2026 World Cup.

Sangeeta Gogri and Alexandra Foster (left to right).

Expanding Opportunities for Poet-Athletes

Seattle SCORES has grown from serving 60 students at two schools in 2022 to over 400 students across eight schools in 2025. Each Poet-Athlete participates in soccer, poetry, and service learning, developing skills on the field, in the classroom, and in their communities. The excitement around soccer in the city adds an extra spark for local youth to engage with the game.

Leadership Transition

In September 2025, Sangeeta Gogri became Seattle SCORES’ new Executive Director. She brings experience in youth programs and community engagement and a lifelong passion for soccer.

Alexandra Foster, outgoing Executive Director, reflects on her tenure:

“There’s still work to do — many people don’t know about Seattle SCORES, and we’re always thinking outside the box to expand our impact.”

Sangeeta shares why she joined Seattle SCORES:

"For many years I was lucky to have the same coach, Mr. Art Hahnemann— he saw potential in me and gave me opportunities. Because of him, I want to give back to the community; coaches like him did so much for me and I want to bring that to the Poet-Athletes of SCORES. The most important thing to me about Seattle SCORES — and why I am here today — is building our kids holistically through our programs: helping them do better in school, build healthy fitness habits, stay safe, and ultimately become leaders in their communities.”

SCORES Across the Network

Seattle SCORES is part of The SCORES Network, which serves 15,000 Poet-Athletes across the U.S. and Canada. Each affiliate tailors its programs to local communities, while sharing the same mission: inspiring youth to lead healthy lives, be engaged students, and build confidence to make a difference in the world.

Looking Ahead

Foster shares advice for the next chapter:

"Put the kids first. Every decision — fundraising, partnerships, programs — should ultimately make their lives better. If it does, then it’s the right one."

With strong leadership, a growing community, and the support of its affiliates, Seattle SCORES is ready to continue expanding opportunities for youth to thrive on the field, in the arts, and in their neighborhoods — just as the city’s soccer scene continues to grow and inspire the next generation.

Read more at https://www.seattlescores.org/post/a-new-era-for-seattle-scores