A new chapter is unfolding for youth soccer in central Washington as two long‑standing clubs combine forces to create the Wenatchee Futbol Academy, a unified entity dedicated to broadening competitive pathways for local players.
A Unified Vision for Youth Soccer
The academy brings together the resources of Wenatchee United Soccer Club and Wenatchee FC, forming a single organization that will field teams across a full spectrum of age groups, from under‑4 to under‑19, and will field two squads that will represent the region in national competitions.
Program leaders say the merger directly addresses gaps that previously limited team availability, especially for younger age brackets, and promises deeper coaching staff, more structured curricula, and a clearer pathway for players aspiring to higher levels of play.
Free tryouts are currently being offered to any interested athlete, providing an accessible entry point for families who may have previously faced barriers to participation.
Cindy Abouammo, one of the academy’s co‑directors, emphasizes that the expanded program depth and improved instruction are expected to raise the overall quality of coaching and player development across the board.
Mike Osborn, the other co‑director, notes that roughly 3,000 children currently play soccer in the Wenatchee area, underscoring the substantial talent pool that the academy hopes to tap into and nurture.
Apple Cup Tournament Set to Boost Local Economy
From July 31st through August 2nd, the academy will host the Apple Cup Tournament, a three‑day event that will bring together about 115 teams competing on 18 fields spread across six venues in the region.
Organizers estimate that the tournament will generate the second‑largest local economic impact of any sports event in the area, drawing visitors, vendors, and media attention that will benefit hotels, restaurants, and retail businesses throughout the county.
The partnership with the Wenatchee Chamber of Commerce further amplifies the tournament’s reach, linking the sporting event with broader community development initiatives and ensuring that the economic benefits are widely distributed.
With the academy now in place and a high‑profile tournament on the horizon, local officials and families alike anticipate a lasting positive shift in how youth soccer is organized, experienced, and supported throughout the region.