Shriners Children’s Patients Take Center Stage in International Soccer Tournaments

Shriners Children’s and Concacaf (Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football) have announced a partnership that will shine a global spotlight on the international healthcare system. As the official children’s healthcare provider of Concacaf’s premier men’s national team football (soccer) competitions – Nations League Finals and Gold Cup – Shriners Children’s will share its mission of providing pediatric specialty care regardless of a family’s ability to pay or insurance status to a global audience.

 “This new initiative with Concacaf provides an incredible opportunity to amplify the stories of our patients – children who have faced medical challenges with courage and determination,” said Richard Burke, chairman of the Board of Directors for Shriners Children’s. “Seeing our patients walk onto the field alongside some of the world’s greatest soccer players will be a powerful moment, symbolizing resilience and the limitless potential of every child in our care.”

 Spanning 13 cities in 2025, Shriners Children’s patients will be honored as “The Most Amazing Captains” and take the field alongside team starters. Dressed in custom uniforms, these ambassadors will take center stage, inspiring millions of fans worldwide. Global television exposure and venue signage will further elevate awareness of Shriners Children’s.

The Concacaf Nations League Finals were held in March. Gold Cup, held every two years, is the region’s premier men’s national team tournament, uniting the 16-best teams from North America, Central America and the Caribbean. The 18th edition of the competition will be played this summer, between June 14 and July 6, across 14 stadiums in the United States and Canada. View complete list.