Rhode Island does not hide its size, but the smallest state packs a punch. East Providence carries the same sort of mentality as it fights for its space in the spotlight.
While its famous namesake serves as the capital, East Providence rises to prominence in other ways. One of its hallmarks: a passion for soccer and the opportunities the community is provided to play the game.
“East Providence is special because for a small town there is a lot of soccer opportunity,” said Marsha Giroux, the president of AYSO United East Providence. “With there being so many kids with families deeply interested in soccer, we bring to the table the chance for the entire family to play. We start them at age 3 and have leagues for adults. No other club can boast that. The love for soccer is strong here; we want to encourage and deepen that love however we can.”