Third Spaces Make A Healthy City

By Will Melton · July 20, 2026

Category: Health & Wellness

Show: Americas Healthiest City

As third spaces in society seem to have decreased, the human need for them has only grown. People who live closer to them report higher levels of physical activity, stronger social networks, and bette

As third spaces in society seem to have decreased, the human need for them has only grown. People who live closer to them report higher levels of physical activity, stronger social networks, and better overall well-being. They're places where your trust in your community grows, and that only gets stronger when sports come into the picture.

Soccer fields and futsal courts are places where both community and physical fitness come together. So just because the FIFA World Cup has concluded, it doesn't mean that the worldwide impact of soccer is anywhere near finished. It certainly isn't in Richmond.

On our latest episode of America's Healthiest City, host Will Melton spoke with Alex Kocher about all things soccer in Richmond, how sports makes an impact on individuals, and how this sport specifically has made the world a more connected place.

Watch the full interview with Richmond Kickers and Richmond Ivy's Creative Director on Channel RVA.