BREAKING BARRIERS. Building Futures.
Mission & Vision
Dallas Soccer Scholars (DSS) is a Texas-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering Dallas-area youth ages 10–18 by providing soccer scholarships that break down financial barriers and open doors to athletic, academic, and personal growth. DSS ensures that cost is never the reason a young athlete is kept from the game they love while also fostering leadership, teamwork, and community engagement.
History
DSS began when a group of soccer moms recognized the need on their own sons’ teams. What started as a few parents pooling funds to support players whose families couldn’t keep up with rising club costs soon grew into a community effort. Seeing the positive impact on players and teams, the moms formalized the organization, expanded fundraising, and identified additional teams and players who could benefit – and Dallas Soccer Scholars was born.
What We Do
- Scholarships: Financial assistance for youth club soccer players from families with verified financial need.
- Mentorship: Connections with college and high school athlete role models for guidance and inspiration.
- Workshops: Skills and life workshops focused on teamwork, leadership, and personal development.
- Gear Distribution: Essential soccer gear (cleats, backpacks, uniforms) for participants.
- College Recruitment Pathways: Partnerships with local colleges (Richland, SMU), pro teams (Atletico Dallas, Dallas Trinity), and community organizations to help talented players pursue higher education and athletic opportunities.
Program Details & Selection Criteria
- Eligibility: Dallas-area youth ages 10–18 with demonstrated financial need.
- Application Process: Online form, financial documentation, coach’s recommendation, and personal statement.
- Selection Criteria:
- Verified financial need
- Soccer commitment (history and coach recommendation)
- Academics (minimum 75+ GPA or C average)
- Community involvement (5 volunteer hours annually)
- Personal statement (passion and goals)
- Requirements: Continued club participation, strong academics, and community service in good standing.
board of directors
Jacque Kruppa, President
Gabriela Andersson, Vice President – Secretary
Sarita Prabhu, Vice President – Treasurer
Jacque Kruppa is an attorney and partner at Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP in Dallas and has approximately 20 years of experience focusing on corporate, securities, M&A, and regulatory representation of community banks and their owners. She founded Women in Community Banking, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides educational, networkin
Jacque Kruppa is an attorney and partner at Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP in Dallas and has approximately 20 years of experience focusing on corporate, securities, M&A, and regulatory representation of community banks and their owners. She founded Women in Community Banking, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides educational, networking, and mentoring opportunities for women in the community banking industry. Jacque also served on the Board of Directors of Golden Retriever Rescue of North Texas and has formed and advised numerous 501(c)(3) nonprofits in her pro bono legal practice. She is involved in her community and enjoys volunteering her time by serving as the team manager for her boys’ soccer teams.
Sarita Prabhu, Vice President – Treasurer
Gabriela Andersson, Vice President – Secretary
Sarita Prabhu, Vice President – Treasurer
Sarita Prabhu is a legal and business professional with extensive experience in technology transactions, privacy, and compliance. As Managing Vice President and Legal Counsel at Gartner, she leads commercial legal operations for the Americas, collaborating closely with sales, finance, and operations teams. Sarita serves on the boards of
Sarita Prabhu is a legal and business professional with extensive experience in technology transactions, privacy, and compliance. As Managing Vice President and Legal Counsel at Gartner, she leads commercial legal operations for the Americas, collaborating closely with sales, finance, and operations teams. Sarita serves on the boards of two other nonprofits assisting youth and families (POETIC and Human Rights Initiative) and helped run a food pantry at her son’s DISD school.
Gabriela Andersson, Vice President – Secretary
Gabriela Andersson, Vice President – Secretary
Gabriela Andersson, Vice President – Secretary
Gabriela Bucio Andersson is an award-winning communications and public relations executive with more than two decades of experience advising global brands and senior leaders. Recognized for her strategic insight and cross-cultural expertise, she has guided Fortune 100 companies and international organizations on reputation management, med
Gabriela Bucio Andersson is an award-winning communications and public relations executive with more than two decades of experience advising global brands and senior leaders. Recognized for her strategic insight and cross-cultural expertise, she has guided Fortune 100 companies and international organizations on reputation management, media strategy, and executive visibility. Gabriela brings a global perspective, collaborative leadership, and a deep commitment to amplifying purpose-driven initiatives that create lasting impact.