Denton ISD Hosts “November to Remember” GOAL Kickoff

With the spirit of "November to Remember," students, families, and volunteers from across the community came together Saturday, November 7, at Strickland Middle School for the 17th annual kickoff of the Guys and Girls Operating As Leaders (GOAL) program. The opening event marked the start of another year of bringing youth together to build leadership skills, confidence, and civic pride through teamwork and sport.

What originated in 2010 as a modest leadership effort at Strickland Middle School has expanded into a thriving regional non-profit serving students across Denton ISD, Sanger ISD, and Lake Dallas ISD. Now a registered 501(c)(3) organization driven entirely by volunteer board members and coaches, GOAL blends academics, athletics, and activism to mentor children in grades 3–8.

Strickland’s sidelines packed enthusiastic crowds that cheered on 14 elementary and 14 middle school co-ed teams, representing seven campuses across three North Texas school districts, as they came together on the pitch. Beyond match days, GOAL participants attend required weekly meetings offering tuition-free soccer leagues, tutoring, leadership training, service projects, creative publishing initiatives, and access to college scholarships. To date, the program has awarded more than $80,000 in scholarships to program alumni.

“Every year, the GOAL kickoff reminds us of what’s possible when schools, neighborhoods, and families rally behind our kids,” said Chris Ice, Denton ISD’s Community Engagement Coordinator. “This isn't just about playing soccer; it's about opening doors, building trust, and showing these students that an entire community is standing in their corner as they discover their potential.”

Beyond developing athletic skills, GOAL focuses on fostering a strong sense of belonging, personal pride, and character among middle and elementary school students.

League play will continue at participating campuses over the coming months, providing continuous mentorship and growth opportunities throughout the season.

Denton ISD Hosts “November to Remember” GOAL Kickoff

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