MANSFIELD, Jan. 29, 2024 – Dante Washington, former Olympian and 13-year professional soccer player, has joined the YMCA of North Central Ohio as a consultant for its new branch and sports complex set to break ground in June. Washington will share his expertise and guidance on the programs and activities for the multi-use facility designed to promote community development and economic growth for Richland County.
"We are so fortunate to have Dante join our team. His expertise and enthusiasm in developing youth soccer programs aligns perfectly with our goals for this new sports complex," said Cristen Gilbert, YMCA CEO. "Our indoor and outdoor soccer fields will cater to traveling soccer teams from all over the region. Dante’s guidance and strong passion for serving the community will help us design a sport complex that will boost youth development and wellness across the state."
Washington has more than 40 years of experience in the soccer industry as an athlete, administrator, and businessman. He is a former Major League Soccer and United Soccer League player who represented the U.S. Senior National Team, the 1992 U.S. Olympic Soccer Team, and the 1991 Pan American Games Gold Medalist Team. He holds an MBA from Ohio State University and currently serves as the director of team strategic partnerships and business development for the Columbus Crew. He resides in Delaware, Ohio with his family.
"The YMCA of North Central Ohio is creating a unique facility that will provide quality programs and services that promote healthy lifestyles and community engagement,” said Washington. “I look forward to working with the Y staff and partners to create a sports complex that will inspire and empower kids of all ages and abilities to achieve their full potential. I have tremendous enthusiasm for what the YMCA is doing is in Richland County and throughout Ohio, and I’m committed to sharing my experiences to help it become one of the state’s top sporting facilities.”
“Dante’s professional soccer experience will help us create the sports programming, training, and tournaments that ensure every participant develops and grows from their experience at the Y’s new sports complex,” added Gilbert.
The 120,000-square-foot sports complex near the I-71 and State Route 97 intersection in Richland County is expected to open its doors in the fall of 2025. Project leaders say dozens of local donors have already contributed nearly $8 million for the $22 million complex, but additional funds are needed before potential donors from out of the area make their financial commitments. They are hopeful that the community will support this major project expected to bring millions of dollars into north central Ohio and add at least 100 new jobs.
The nearly 35 acres of land donated by former Mansfield industrialist James C. Gorman will feature indoor soccer, basketball, volleyball, pickle ball and indoor track, as well as several outdoor soccer fields and an outdoor walking trail.
Financial gifts may be mailed to: YMCA Project, YMCA of NCO, 750 Scholl Road, Mansfield, 44907 or made online at www.ymcanco.org. More information about the YMCA’s project is also available on this site.
About the YMCA of North Central Ohio
The YMCA of North Central Ohio is building a community where all people, especially youth, are encouraged to develop their fullest potential in mind, body, and spirit. Every day the staff works side-by-side with its neighbors to make sure everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, can learn, grow, and thrive.
The Y was established in Mansfield in 1867 and at that time, was an organization for men. In 1956, the previous facility on Park Avenue West near downtown Mansfield opened its doors to both women and men, with a focus on families. The current larger facility off Lexington Avenue, built in 1999, offers many services that meet the ever-changing needs of the growing communities it serves. Over the years, programs have been developed to help with childcare, teens, older adults, and those with disabilities to embody the mission of the YMCA of North Central Ohio. In 2017, the Y celebrated its 150th anniversary with a successful $1.5 million campaign to renovate the parking lot and gymnasium, as well as create the popular community splash pad.
In 2022, Mansfield industrialist Jim Gorman, who passed away recently, donated 35 acres of land to the Y for its sports branch and athletic fields at Interstate 71 and Ohio Route 97.
The YMCA will continue to grow to meet the critical needs of Richland County residents with the sole purpose of building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities through caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.