Madison, Wis. – Haley Brisky, a dedicated volunteer and coach in the Madison‑area soccer community, has earned a spot among the five finalists nationwide for the 2026 Best Western/United Soccer League Hometown Heroes award. Forward Madison FC, the city’s professional team, put Brisky’s name forward in recognition of her decades‑long commitment to giving every child a chance to play the beautiful game.
Making soccer affordable for all families
Brisky explained that the biggest barrier to participation is cost. “We made our programs $15 a year but it’s a pay‑as‑you‑can model, so no one has to pay and we don’t follow up,” she said. This approach eliminates the financial pressure that often keeps lower‑income families from fielding a team.
Transportation solutions built into the program
Beyond fees, Brisky’s club focuses on location. Millennium Soccer Club schedules practices and games in neighborhoods where families can walk or catch a bus, removing the need for costly car rides. “We serve kids from first through fifth grade all over Madison,” she noted.
Building community through sport
Brisky also serves as assistant coach for the Sugar River High School boys soccer team, a cooperative effort that brings together players from New Glarus, Belleville and surrounding towns. “Former players now bring their children to play with us – that’s a great sign we’re doing something right,” she said. “We like to say we are building community using soccer as the tool.”
Why the award matters
The Hometown Heroes award celebrates individuals who use sport to strengthen families, foster character and unite neighborhoods. Brisky’s nomination highlights how a grassroots effort can embody those values, offering youth the chance to learn perseverance, teamwork and humility.
How to vote
Voting for the award is open now and runs through Wednesday, November 4, at 11 a.m. Central Time. Residents are encouraged to support Brisky’s nomination and recognize the impact of affordable, community‑focused youth sports.
For more information on the award and voting process, visit the United Soccer League’s official website.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
