The Matthews Athletic & Recreation Association (MARA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to enriching the lives of young athletes since 1956. Located at Arthur Goodman Memorial Park, we offer a wide range of sports programs including baseball, softball, football, basketball, cheerleading, and our Bambino Buddy-Ball program for children with special needs.

Our mission is to create a positive, inclusive environment where kids can grow through sports, learning teamwork, leadership, and lifelong values.  Each year, 3,000 athletes and 50,000 visitors come through our park, with more than 1,500 games played annually. MARA is fueled by volunteers and committed to providing expert coaching, quality facilities, and affordable access to sports for all. Partnering with MARA means investing in our youth and our community.

Why Sponsor at MARA?

• Brand Visibility: Reach thousands through signage and digital media.

• Community Impact: Help provide safe, high-quality programs for local youth.

• Meaningful Connections: Network with local leaders and like-minded businesses.

• Tax Benefits: All sponsorships are fully tax-deductible.
  

Interested in learning more about partnering with MARA?  Please contact Dana Bouque at (704) 491-6857 or [email protected].

Annual MARA Sponsorship Packages - Diamond Sports  (Baseball & Softball)
February 2025 - November 2025

Annual MARA Sponsorship Packages - Rectangle Sports (Flag & Tackle Football)
August 2025 - May 2026

Mid-year MARA Sponsorship Packages - Diamond Sports (Baseball & Softball)
February 2025 - November 2025

Mid-year MARA Sponsorship Packages - Rectangle Sports (Flag & Tackle Football)
August 2025 - May 2026

Digital Sponsor Directory

Looking for an orthodontist, electrician, veterinarian, accountant, or aesthetician?

We’ve got you covered!

Click here to explore our Digital Sponsor Directory, where you'll find businesses that proudly support MARA. When you choose our community partners, you're not just getting great service -- you are also giving back to the sponsors who help keep our programs thriving!

Dana Bouque, Director of Sponsorship

[email protected] | (704) 491-6857

Get ready to shop and save big at DICK'S Sporting Goods! Enjoy 20% off your entire purchase from Friday, August 15 – Monday, August 18, 2025 at the DICK’S locations in Matthews, SouthPark, and Pineville.

Remember, the more the coupon is used, the more DICK’S Sporting Goods gives back to MARA!

Be sure to spread the word and share your coupon with friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors.

Click here to download the coupon!

Open Play Day at Woodplay Charlotte – August 20!



Beat the heat and enjoy a day of indoor fun at Woodplay Charlotte! On Tuesday, August 20 from 10am–6pm, MARA families receive 50% off Open Play Passes.

Just wear your MARA gear to claim your discount. Don’t miss this awesome day of play!

Join us for a fun night out at CharBar No.7 in Matthews on Wednesday, August 27 from 4:00pm - 9:00pm!

Bring your family, grab a delicious burger and support MARA while enjoying great food and community vibes!

Join Us for the 34th Annual Kiwanis Labor Day 5K!

Lace up and kick off your Labor Day at the beautiful Mecklenburg County Sportsplex on Monday, September 1, 2025. This family-friendly, out-and-back 5K winds through paved paths around the stadium and soccer fields—no busy streets, just a fun, accessible route for runners and walkers alike!

Race starts at 7:30 AM. Pre-register by August 30 for just $35—race day registration is $45.
Sign up by August 14 to guarantee your race shirt!

Proceeds support programs benefiting children in our community, proudly hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Matthews.

For more information and to register, click here.

Cantina Louie

2225 Matthews Township Parkway, Suite C

Matthews, NC 28105

Click here to view Cantina Louie's menu.

Dine in, Take-out, or Delivery options available.

Coupons are valid from January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.

Click here to download coupon sheet.