A tournament built on legacy and community
The 12th annual Evans Cup Outreach Invitational will take place on June 6 in Wilmington, North Carolina, offering a free youth soccer tournament that welcomes children from across the region.
The event is held in memory of Evan, a talented soccer player whose enthusiasm for the game inspired teammates and neighbors before his untimely death in an accident.
Founded by Kim Crabb, the tournament’s organizer and a pioneer as the first Black woman to earn a spot on the U.S. Women’s National Team, the day blends sport with mentorship, emphasizing that every child deserves the chance to play.
Organizers, in partnership with Cape Fear Outreach, supply participants with new shoes, meals, hydration and essential gear, removing financial barriers that often keep youngsters off the field.
Open to all children, the tournament typically serves ages five through fifteen or sixteen, while older players and volunteers also join to coach, referee and support the games, which run from ten a.m. to two p.m. at the Williston Track on 13th and Castle streets.
Beyond the matches, the gathering showcases a communitywide commitment to inclusion, with volunteers and local partners working together to create a safe, welcoming environment for every participant.