BELIEVE TO ACHIEVE

Inspiring the Next Generation

Interested Players

FOUNDERS

City United Academy was founded by Rick Hawkins and Eta Arrey to be more than just a soccer program it’s a movement to uplift, empower, and equip urban youth in Kansas City. Rooted in elite player development, the Academy provides free access to high-level soccer training, academic support, and holistic mentorship. Beyond the pitch, students engage in tutoring, coding workshops, and hands-on trades training building the skills and confidence they need to thrive in school, in their communities, and in life. Guided by a mission to remove financial barriers and invest in the whole child, City United ensures every young athlete is seen, supported, and prepared to lead.

Founder - Rick Hawkins

Head Boys & Girls Soccer Coach – Northeast High School, Kansas City, MO

With over 18 years of coaching experience, Coach Rick is committed to empowering youth through soccer developing character, building opportunity, and promoting growth on and off the field. He has led programs with the U.S. Soccer Foundation, KC Blaze, and SURF Northland, focusing on underserved urban communities.

Coach Rick holds a USSF National D License, is a Certified National Trainer with the U.S. Soccer Foundation, and has earned multiple coaching certifications, including futsal and urban soccer High School and Collegiate Professional Development, and Director of Coaching development. His approach blends structured training with mentorship, using soccer as a tool for lasting impact.

Founder - Eta (Coach E) Arrey

Head Coach – Sporting Blue Valley, Overland Park, KS

A Visionary Coach with over 13 years of coaching experience, Coach E is dedicated to developing players across all levels, from recreational to competitive. He has worked with various organizations like Sporting City West, KC Blaze, and YMCA. Coach E focuses on structured development, leadership, and player progression with relentless pursuit for excellence.

Coach E holds a USSF National B License and National C License, with certifications in coaching futsal, urban soccer, High School and Collegiate Professional Development, and Director of Coaching. His approach emphasizes technical skill, mental toughness, and tactical awareness, aiming to foster a positive club culture and player growth both on and off the field.

Building a Stronger Football Community

Our Vision
We are committed to being a transformative force in youth development by providing free, elite soccer training, holistic mentorship, and academic support to children from underserved communities in Kansas City. Our mission is to ensure that every child regardless of background, financial hardship, or social status has equitable access to opportunities that build character, confidence, and life skills. By removing all financial barriers, we aim to empower the next generation of leaders to rise, thrive, and positively impact their communities and beyond.

Our Mission

City United Academy exist to inspire and empower youth through the game of soccer by instilling values of teamwork, discipline, and leadership. We are committed to creating pathways for both personal and athletic development and ensuring every young athlete has the tools to succeed on the field and in life. We believe that by cultivating resilience, community engagement and a passion for growth we aim to build a Stronger Kansas City and future One player at a time.

Core Values

Empowerment
We believe in equipping youth with the tools and confidence to shape their own futures on the field, in the classroom, and in life.

Community
We are deeply rooted in the neighborhoods we serve, fostering strong relationships and cultivating a sense of unity, belonging, and shared purpose.

Excellence
We hold ourselves and our athletes to high standards striving for excellence in training, academics, and personal growth.

Leadership
We nurture leaders who act with integrity, courage, and compassion creating positive change within their teams, families, and communities.

Resilience
We teach the value of perseverance. Through sport and mentorship, youth learn to overcome adversity, grow through setbacks, and rise stronger together.

Equity & Access
We are committed to eliminating barriers to opportunity. Every child, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves access to high-quality programs and the chance to succeed.

What We Do

Grassroots Development

Introducing kids to football and fostering a lifelong love of the game and building friendships and communities.

Player Development

We develop players through coaching, training, and competition.

League Management

We will organize and manage leagues for all ages and skill levels that is Accessible to players of that community.