OVERLAND PARK & OLATHE, Kan. (Oct. 31, 2024) — Heartland Soccer Association, the largest youth soccer league in the U.S., will kick off its Heartland Invitational Tournament on Friday, Nov. 1, at the Scheels Overland Park Soccer Complex and the Garmin Olathe Soccer Complex. This event will take place over two weekends, with the Girls’ Tournament scheduled for Nov. 1-3 and the Boys’ Tournament set for Nov. 8-10.
The tournament will feature a partnership with the American Lung Association to raise awareness about lung health and the dangers of vaping. Attendees can visit an interactive tent to learn more about these important health issues.
With teams traveling from across the Kansas City metropolitan area and various states, the estimated economic impact of the tournament weekend is $5.9 million.
Shane Hackett, executive director of Heartland Soccer, noted the importance of the event. “The Heartland Invitational continues its legacy as the premier soccer competition in the Kansas City area. By dividing the tournament into two weekends, we can accommodate the many teams seeking one last opportunity to compete this season. We look forward to welcoming thousands of players, coaches, and families over the weekend.”
Matches will be live-streamed and available for playback through VidSport’s technology, allowing fans to watch games on their devices and stay connected, whether at the field or remotely.
Heartland Soccer will also host a Skills Challenge on Saturday, Nov. 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Garmin Olathe Soccer Complex. This event is open to players of all ages and skill levels, featuring challenges in dribbling, shooting, and passing. Awards will be given for top performers in each division, including boys and girls U6-U19 and adult divisions. For more details and to register, visit www.skillschallengeusa.com.
“We’re excited to host the Soccer Skills Challenge during tournament weekend and offer a competitive event for local soccer players,” said Sara Prigel, special events director for Heartland Soccer Association. “It’s a great chance to showcase skills and compete against talented players.”
Media coverage is welcome throughout the tournament, which begins Friday at 5:30 p.m.
For more information about the Heartland Soccer Tournament Series, visit www.heartlandsoccer.net.
About Heartland Soccer Association
Heartland Soccer, the largest youth soccer league in the United States, boasts an impressive roster of more than 2,700 league teams and 3,700 tournament teams annually. With a staggering count of 100,000 youth soccer players, 4,000 coaches, and 2,000 active referees, Heartland Soccer Association has established itself as a prominent organization since its inception in 1977. Starting with 600 players, the association has expanded its reach to encompass teams from 16 states and international participants, offering both league play and tournaments. For further details, please visit www.heartlandsoccer.net.
Heartland Soccer extends a range of opportunities for league and tournament sponsorship. Partnerships serve as integral members in nurturing an ever-growing soccer family within the community. Sponsorship not only amplifies brand visibility for businesses but also directly contributes to the development of Kansas City’s youth through soccer. To explore sponsorship options, kindly reach out to Bridgette Samuelson, Director of Partnership Development and Operations, at bridgette@heartlandsoccer.net.
About VidSport
VidSport creates best of class streaming game coverage. VidSport works to connect families and help archive games, sports and memories. Equipped with state-of-the-art cameras integrated with artificial intelligence technology, soccer enthusiasts can now enjoy the excitement of matches from the convenience of their own devices. Our mission is to expand sports coverage so families and fans will never miss a game. For more information, please visit www.vidsport.io.
