ROGERS, Ark. – Ozark United FC today announced its inaugural Youth Academy founding partners: Unilever, Arkansas Children’s and America’s Car-Mart. As part of the club’s youth development program and pathway, these community-minded organizations will support efforts to expand access to soccer, elevate player development, and strengthen community engagement across Northwest Arkansas.
Earlier this year, Ozark United FC and Sporting Arkansas announced a joint effort to launch six boys’ academy teams competing in MLS NEXT’s new competition tier. The teams, ranging from U13 to U19, will play under the Ozark United FC banner in the Pioneer Conference, attend USL Academy showcase events such as USL Pathway Classic, and other elite competitions. Players will receive high-level training, access to national showcase events, and opportunities for exposure to college and professional scouts. A girls’ program is also in development, with more details to be announced in the coming months.
Each founding partner will support both Academy operations and community-focused initiatives designed to break down barriers and increase youth participation in soccer, particularly in underserved areas. This collective commitment represents a shared investment in the health, growth, and opportunity of the next generation across Northwest Arkansas. Highlights of each partner’s involvement include:
- Unilever will feature its Degree brand on the front of the boys’ home and away kits, while Dove will appear on the girls’ kits, as part of Dove’s self-esteem project initiative to help keep girls confident and playing the sports they love.
- Arkansas Children’s will appear on the sleeve of all home and away match kits, reflecting their commitment to youth sports as a powerful way communities help kids thrive physically and mentally.
- America’s Car-Mart will support grassroots youth clinics and community engagement initiatives, with a focus on underserved youth.
All three partners will also participate in hosting regional ID camps and clinics aimed at identifying and developing local talent.
“We’re fortunate to be building this club in a region where community-minded, high-impact organizations thrive,” said Chris Martinovic, co-founder of Ozark United FC. “These partnerships reflect our shared commitment to using soccer as a vehicle for good—on the field and in the community.”
“We are grateful to Unilever, Arkansas Children’s and America’s Car-Mart,” said Warren Smith, co-founder of Ozark United FC. “The corporate community’s response to our efforts has been unmeasured, and we are excited to have our first partnerships in growing the beautiful game and helping the community effort.”
“Unilever is proud to partner with Ozark United FC. We look forward to helping grow the game and support youth sports in Northwest Arkansas,” said Mark Huffman, Senior Vice President of Unilever, Head of Walmart.
“As a system dedicated to boldly advancing a healthier future for all families, Arkansas Children’s sees youth sports as one way communities help their youngest thrive. The mental and physical health benefits of programs like the Youth Academy lay the foundation for our children to meet their full potential. We’re proud Arkansas Children’s can partner in this initiative to build future leaders of our region through a program that creates such energy, inclusive opportunities and joy for teens,” said Marcy Doderer, president and CEO of Arkansas Children’s.
“We’re proud to partner with organizations that share our belief in the power of sport to change lives. This partnership is about more than soccer; it’s about creating opportunity, building confidence, and fostering a community for young people who deserve every chance to succeed. By investing in youth development, especially in underserved areas, we’re laying the groundwork for a stronger, more inclusive future on and off the field,” said Doug Campbell, president and CEO of America’s Car-Mart.
The community is invited to celebrate the launch of the program at a public kickoff event on Tuesday, July 22, at 5:00 pm at Rendezvous Junction Brewing Co.
The partnerships are already making an impact, starting with a free youth soccer clinic on Saturday, July 26, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Mt. Hebron Park. Sign-up details will be available soon at www.ozarkunited.com.