Some of the nation's top youth soccer players have arrived in Wichita as the U.S. Youth Soccer National Presidents Cup gets underway, bringing with it a World Cup atmosphere and an economic boost for the city.
The tournament runs Tuesday through Saturday at the Scheels Stryker Sports Complex and is free for the public to attend. Teams from across the country are competing for a national championship after advancing through state and regional tournaments.
Visit Wichita officials say hosting the tournament for the next three years is expected to generate an estimated $12 million economic impact and attract roughly 6,000 visitors. They also believe the excitement surrounding this summer's FIFA World Cup is adding to the energy surrounding the event.
"This could be the next generation of World Cup players," Visit Wichita Director of Public Relations Jemelle Holopirek said, noting that many of the athletes competing this week are among the best youth players in the country.
Players say watching the world's biggest soccer tournament has inspired them to pursue their own dreams of playing at the highest level. For many teams, simply qualifying for the National Presidents Cup is the culmination of months of hard work and a chance to represent their hometowns on a national stage.
Parents say events like the National Presidents Cup provide valuable experience that can help young athletes develop both on and off the field, with hopes that some may eventually reach the professional ranks.
Wichita was selected to host the National Presidents Cup for three consecutive years, making it the first city chosen to stage the event for more than two straight years.
