Leveling the Playing Field: BPC and the San Jose Earthquakes Team Up for Coaching Diversity
Black Players for Change (BPC) is thrilled to announce a powerful new partnership with the San Jose Earthquakes, a collaboration focused on leveling the playing field for aspiring Black coaches.
COLUMBUS, OHIO (Wednesday, February 12, 2025) – Black Players for Change (BPC), a coalition of more than 170 Black players, coaches, and staff in Major League Soccer (MLS), is thrilled to announce a new partnership with the San Jose Earthquakes that focuses on leveling the playing field for aspiring Black coaches to create a more inclusive and equitable coaching landscape.
Through the partnership, BPC will help amplify the impact of the Earthquakes’ already progressive, opportunity-forward Quakes Community Coaching Course – which is designed to break down the barriers for individuals from under-resourced communities to increase their access to earn coaching licenses. This program, now in its third year, has impacted dozens of coaches, providing them with the training, mentorship, and financial support they need to succeed.
“This partnership provides valuable opportunities for coaches from under-represented groups,” said Earl Edwards, Jr., San Jose Earthquakes goalkeeper and Black Players for Change President. “I’m proud that BPC and the Quakes are providing the support to help these individuals advance through the sport.”
“This partnership provides valuable opportunities for coaches from under-represented groups. I’m proud that BPC and the Quakes are providing the support to help these individuals advance through the sport.”
Earl Edwards Jr. joined the San Jose Earthquakes prior to the 2025 season. He also serves as the President of Black Players for Change.
Moving from support into action to create real change, BPC is investing in the future of the game by investing in the development of Black coaches through financial assistance that matches the Quakes’ contributions for coaches who complete their certifications.
Quakes Community Coaching Program participants attend an in-person session.
"Our partnership with the San Jose Earthquakes signifies a powerful step forward in creating real pathways for Black coaches in the beautiful game,” said Allen Hopkins Jr., Executive Director of Black Players for Change. “We are honored to collaborate with the Earthquakes on this important initiative, which aligns perfectly with BPC's mission to drive meaningful change within the soccer community. By supporting programs like the Quakes Community Coaching Course, we are investing in the future of the sport and empowering coaches like Kapanga Mchombo, who represents the next generation of leaders on the sidelines."
The Quakes Community Coaching Course, in partnership with Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA), is a game changing initiative. Participants receive personalized training from experienced coaches, learn valuable skills, and gain the confidence they need to lead teams. And with the support of both the Earthquakes and BPC, they also will receive financial assistance to pursue their coaching licenses – a crucial step in their professional development.
“The Quakes Foundation is thrilled to have the support of BPC. Our coaching course has already made a meaningful impact on many coaches and their communities. With BPC’s partnership, we will be able to reach even more aspiring coaches, expanding both the reach and influence of the program.”
BPC takes great pride in partnering with the San Jose Earthquakes on this important work, as together, they strive to create a soccer community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, both on and off the field.
This is just the beginning of the journey to create a more diverse and equitable future for the beautiful game.
Want to learn more about the Quakes Community Coaching Course? Check out their website
Want to support the work of Black Players for Change? Visit our website to learn more about our mission and how you can get involved.
Let's work together to level the playing field and create a brighter future for soccer!
About Black Players for Change
Black Players for Change (BPC) is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization consisting of Black players, coaches and staff from Major League Soccer, working to bridge the racial equality gap that exists in society. BPC is committed to tackling the racial injustices that have limited Black people from having an equitable stake in the game of soccer and society. Among the many goals, the organization strives to advance the attention on human rights inequalities from protest to programs, partnerships, and policies that address systemic discrimination.
