TAMPA, Fla (June 3, 2024) - As part of the United Soccer League’s commitment to providing unparalleled mental health support and resources to all its athletes, coaches and staff, the USL is pleased to announce a partnership with Katie’s Save, a philanthropic foundation centered on providing actionable mental health support for student-athletes.

Katie’s Save, led by Gina and Steve Meyer, is working to pass legislation in California (AB 1575, aka Katie Meyer's Law) and across the nation to give university students the opportunity for a trusted advocate to support them when in need. The foundation was created after the loss of their daughter Katie, who was a goalkeeper for the NCAA Championship-winning Stanford women’s soccer team.

“Partnering with Katie’s Save is a powerful statement about the USL’s commitment to supporting members of our community, both on and off the field,” said USL Vice President of Corporate Wellness and Safeguarding Betsy Cutler. “Mental health advocacy and education is pivotal by teaching our players and coaches positive strategies that will help them mitigate crises and increase resiliency."

In a joint effort to provide advocates and education for players and their well-being, the USL and Katie’s Save, along with W League club Oakland Soul, will be hosting a Mental Health Panel on June 29 at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Training Facility. Betsy Cutler, Oakland Roots and Soul SC’s Mental Performance Coach Lisa Bonta-Sumii, and Gina and Steve Meyer will discuss mental health strategies, the Katie’s Save initiative and more.

The panel will precede a W League match between local rivals Oakland Soul and SF Glens SC on June 30, termed the “Name Your Advocate Game.” Information booths from the Meyers and other mental health organizations will be set up prior to the USL W League match at 6 p.m. PT.

Additionally, the USL and Katie’s Save will offer an “Athlete-to-Athlete Peer Navigation” player-centric training course to W League players through a partnership with the University of Colorado and VitalCog. Starting in August, players involved will virtually attend two training sessions where they will learn mental health support strategies that they can take back to their college campuses.