New Name
For over two decades, The Soccer Ball has been a cornerstone of Urban Initiatives, but our organization has grown to encompass so much more. While sports remain in our DNA, we now leverage the broader power of play to build trusted relationships, create opportunities, and open pathways for Chicago's youth.
To reflect our evolving mission and honor everyone who makes this work possible, we are proud to introduce The Playmakers Ball. You can still expect the exact same energy, format, and legendary celebration you’ve always loved - just with a title that celebrates all of us building a brighter future together.
Event Timeline
The Playmakers Ball will follow a similar timeline from past Soccer Balls:
- 7:00 PM Check-in begins
- 7:00 - 8:00 PM Networking, auction bidding, eating at the Lettuce Entertain You food stations, and enjoying the sponsored bars
- 8:00 - 9:00 PM Presentation with awards and paddle raise
- 9:00 - 11:00 PM Continued networking, dancing, desserts, sponsored bars, and final auction bids (Silent Auction will close at 10:15 PM sharp)
- 11:00 PM School buses pick up guests in front of The Geraghty to transport them to the after party bar
Donate an Auction Item
Have the perfect item for our silent auction? People typically donate vacation homes or Airbnbs, hotel stays, restaurant gift cards, sports tickets, and unforgettable experiences in the Chicagoland area, like in-home dining or backstage concert tickets.
Submit the details here and our team will reach out to coordinate further details.
All donations are 100% tax-deductible.
Attire
Attire is Friday Cocktail Attire, which blends standard cocktail dress codes with a relaxed, end-of-week edge. Key choices include midi or knee-length dresses, sleek jumpsuits, or tailored blazers with sharp trousers.
Menu
Food will be provided by Lettuce Entertain You and we are so excited to have them back again! You can stroll around the party and try bites from many of their restaurants. In the past, Summer House Santa Monica, Stella Barra, RPM Italian, Sushi-San, Cafe Ba Ba Reeba and Mon Ami Gabi have provided food at this event.
Be on the lookout for an email update with their final menu selections leading up to this year's event.
We will also have an open bar!