If you are having World Cup withdrawal don’t worry we have a solution for you. The Soccer Tournament is coming to Cary in June.
This world-class soccer tournament features 32 teams playing for a chance to win the top prize of $1 million dollars. The playing format is 7-on-7 soccer so it will be a fast-paced event. The teams are composed of iconic ex-professional players from around the world and celebrities. The tournament will look similar to the World Cup featuring a group play stage followed by knockout rounds to determine the champion.
This year’s tournament will feature Wrexham Red Dragons, the European football club owned by American actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. The owners and the Wrexham squad are the subjects of a hit FX television series. Former USA Men’s stars Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, DaMarcus Beasley and Jermaine Jones will be playing, as will former NFL superstar Chad Ochocino who will play for team Nati SC in the tournament. Former USA Women’s team champions Heather O’Reilly, Lori Lindsey and Kristine Lilly also have a team playing in the tournament. Former UNC star and global icon Mia Hamm is coaching the team along with Michelle Akers.
Some of Europe’s top leagues are also sending teams to play in the tournament. The English Premier League is sending West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers while Borussia Dortmund is representing the German Bundesliga. Charlotte FC is the lone team representing MLS and North Carolina Football Club, based in Cary, will have representation as the host team for the tournament. It is unclear what players will represent these clubs but all have committed to send players determined to win the tournament.
You may be wondering how teams are selected. Well, each team has a primary organizer and they will recruit players to play for them. For most teams, it’s usually their former teammates or former players of a club. The process for the professional clubs was similar, but don’t expect West Ham United or Borussia Dortmund to send any first-team players. These clubs will most likely send retired players, academy players or players with some type of connection to the club. The bottom line is, you will get to experience a tournament featuring iconic players and great competition all in Cary.
The Soccer Tournament runs from June 1-4 in Cary at WakeMed Soccer Park.
Click the link above for a complete schedule and to buy tickets and gear.
