North Little Rock has announced a strategic partnership with Snap Soccer, a Pensacola‑based tournament management firm, to revitalize youth soccer programming at the city’s Burns Park Soccer Complex. The alliance brings together the municipality’s tourism ambitions, the operational expertise of Snap Soccer, and the local Arkansas Rising Soccer Club to create a more competitive and visible soccer environment.
A Regional Powerhouse Steps In
Snap Soccer, known for organizing events across Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Louisiana, contributes a national network of clubs and teams, as well as services in tournament operations, marketing and club connectivity. Its reputation for delivering high‑stakes, well‑structured competitions was highlighted by Shelbey Morris, Senior Manager of Sales & Partnership at North Little Rock Tourism, who cited the company’s track record as a key draw for the city.
The Burns Park Soccer Complex, featuring 17 irrigated fields, stadium lighting and roughly 1,500 parking spaces, has previously hosted local, regional and national tournaments. Its infrastructure positions it as an ideal venue for the expanded schedule that the partnership envisions, which will now accommodate players from under‑9 to under‑19 across multiple divisions.
Economic and Community Benefits
City officials expect the collaboration to increase tournament capacity and attract teams from across the Southeast, generating significant tourism dollars and supporting local businesses. By leveraging Snap Soccer’s extensive club relationships, North Little Rock aims to position itself as a regional hub for youth soccer, fostering both athletic development and economic vitality.
The initiative will also provide a platform for emerging talent, offering young athletes the chance to compete in high‑profile events that were previously out of reach. With a focus on multi‑division play and a broader tournament calendar, the partnership sets the stage for sustained growth in the city’s sports tourism sector.