Coach Dunn’s Corner: Inclusion
By Coach Wendell Dunn
One of the greatest lessons sports teaches us is that every person has value and every teammate has a role to play. Inclusion is creating a team culture where every person knows they belong, every voice is valued, and every teammate understands they have a meaningful role in the team's success. At Goal 13, we believe that every young person deserves to be seen, heard, and given an opportunity to contribute. Whether an athlete is a starter or a reserve, a veteran or a newcomer, every individual brings unique strengths that make the entire team better. When people feel like they belong, they gain the confidence to grow, lead, and serve others.
The FIFA World Cup is one of the greatest examples of inclusion through sport. Every four years, billions of people from every corner of the world come together to celebrate the game of soccer. Players from different cultures, languages, and backgrounds compete with pride while reminding us that sport has the unique ability to unite people despite their differences. While each nation wears different colors and represents different traditions, they all share a common passion for the game. It is a reminder that our differences should be celebrated because they make our communities stronger.
A great example of inclusion on the world stage is Kylian Mbappé. During the FIFA World Cup, fans from every nation watched players from different cultures, languages, and backgrounds compete with passion while sharing a common love for the game. Mbappé has become one of soccer's biggest ambassadors, demonstrating that the world's greatest teams succeed because they embrace diverse talents and unite around a common purpose. Whether someone scores the winning goal or provides encouragement from the bench, every player has a role that contributes to the team's success. His example reminds us that championships are built when every teammate feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute.
As we continue to grow the Goal 13 family, we want every student-athlete, parent, mentor, donor, and volunteer to know that they belong. The strength of our organization isn't found in one individual; it's found in the diverse community of people who choose to invest in young lives together. Every relationship built, every conversation shared, and every opportunity created helps strengthen our mission. Together, we are creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to learn, lead, and make a difference. This month, I encourage you to ask yourself: How can I help someone feel like they truly belong?