ABC7 Chicago: Intentional Sports to host 1st annual Fútbol Festival in Chicago Non-profit Intentional Sports is hosting it's first-ever Fútbol Festival Saturday in Chicago, and it's getting children on the pitch. Intentional Sports is a nonprofit organization that stands committed to inspiring Chicago’s youth through the power of sports. Our mission is to provide accessible opportunities in sports, wellness, and education through programming that is rooted in excellence, respect, and service.

Understanding the Context

Intentional Sports is a nonprofit organization that stands committed to inspiring Chicago's youth through the power of sports. Today, Intentional Sports serves close to 200 kids weekly through its soccer programming. Sessions run year-round, with weekday training and weekend games—all on-site, all community-based. At Intentional Sports, these findings come alive every day in one of Chicago’s historically most violent neighborhoods.

Key Insights

Since opening our state-of-the-art facility in February 2023, we have hosted or directly run more than 45 weekly sports and wellness activities, engaging 2,500 youth per week. Sign in to create an account, explore programs, and make reservations for Intentional Sports activities online. 4,120 Followers, 204 Following, 440 Posts - INTENTIONAL SPORTS (@intentionalsports) on Instagram: "Intentional Sports is a non-profit organization that believes everyone deserves the opportunity to Play, Compete, and Achieve." What was once a vacant 10-acre lot on Chicago’s west side is now a dynamic space for sport, education, and community growth. Intentional Sports, a nonprofit based at 1841 N Laramie Ave, transformed the land into a 120,000-square-foot multi-sport campus. For his latest venture, McDermott is founder and CEO at Intentional Sports, a facility on a former 10-acre brownfield that borders four neighborhoods on Chicago’s northwest side.

Final Thoughts

Every day, I work to create programs that open doors for youth, strengthen families, and bring our community together through the power of sports. For me, Intentional Sports isn’t just a job—it’s a mission. I am committed to making this a place where every child feels safe, supported, and motivated to dream bigger. The Intentional Sports Volleyball Program focuses on developing strong fundamentals, confidence, and teamwork in a positive, competitive environment. Athletes receive intentional coaching that emphasizes skill development, game understanding, and personal growth.