Wappingers Falls, NY, July 13, 2025 — U.S. Men’s National Team captain Tyler Adams returned to his hometown to unveil the newly renamed “Tyler Adams Soccer Pitch” at Martz Field Recreation Facility, in a ceremony that celebrated his journey and commitment to youth development. Surrounded by family, local officials, and eager young athletes, Adams officially dedicated the field now bearing his name—a fitting tribute to the place where his passion for soccer first took root.
The dedication also marked the launch of a nationwide partnership between Adams, Scotts (the North American lawn care leader), and nonprofit Every Kid Sports. This alliance aims to refurbish natural-turf youth sports fields across the country. Beginning with Adams’s childhood field, the collaboration highlights the benefits of natural grass—offering safer, environmentally friendly playing surfaces and encouraging outdoor activity.
Adams, who now plays for Premier League club AFC Bournemouth and boasts over 50 caps with the U.S. national team, emphasized the personal and community significance of the project. He pointed to his own experiences playing on this very field as foundational in shaping his career. “Being outside in the yard with my son brings back such vivid memories of my own childhood and where my love of soccer first took root,” he said, noting that returning to the location felt both nostalgic and full-circle.
During the July 8 field day event, Adams coordinated skills clinics alongside coaches from Wappinger United Soccer Club, hosted a scrimmage, and interacted with dozens of local youth. Lunch and commemorative T-shirts were provided by Scotts Miracle-Gro, emphasizing its support for the community-oriented occasion. The ceremony included a plaque unveiling and speeches from town dignitaries, recognizing Adams’s achievements and his ongoing efforts to empower local youth.
John Sass, Senior Vice President of Scotts’s lawn business unit, remarked on the vital role natural green spaces play in youth development—physically, mentally, and as communal gathering places. He praised Adams as a partner who shares Scotts’s values, stating, “Natural green spaces are vital for the development of young athletes and the overall well-being of our communities”.
Every Kid Sports, a nonprofit aimed at expanding youth sports participation, will further this mission through assistance with sports registration and connection to quality playing environments. Executive Director Eleana Fanaika said the partnership helps “break down barriers to play and support life through youth sports”.
Through the “Keep It Real” sweepstakes, running July 10–24, U.S.-based youth sports nonprofits have the opportunity to receive field refurbishment packages—including natural-turf upgrades and signed soccer balls from Adams. Scotts will also launch “Refurb Kits” for consumer lawn care, encouraging broader use of natural turf in communities.
Adams views this initiative as more than a symbolic gesture; it reflects a strategic investment in grassroots soccer ahead of the United States co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Reflecting on the sport’s growth, Adams said he’s witnessed a shift toward more focused player development and greater institutional support since his debut in 2017. He voiced optimism that enhanced local facilities and youth programming will fuel the next generation of American soccer talent.
The program earned positive reactions from the local community. A youth clinic attendee noted Adams’s technical skill as inspiring, remarking, “His shooting is incredible… his dribbling and defending is really nice,” capturing the excitement and encouragement present on the field.
As Adams prepares for the upcoming Premier League Summer Series tour and the 2026 World Cup campaign, he remains grounded in his roots. The renaming of Martz Field affirms his role not just as an elite athlete, but as a hometown hero committed to fostering access, opportunity and inspiration for aspiring players.
In honoring Tyler Adams with a namesake playing field, Wappingers Falls did more than recognize an individual—it underscored the transformative power of sport, community, and giving back.
