A community pitch for a growing soccer culture
TUPPS Brewery has transformed from a simple brewing operation into one of McKinney’s most vibrant entertainment and gathering hubs. Known for hosting concerts, festivals and food events, the brewery now leverages its expansive campus to support a wide range of community initiatives.
On May 25, a groundbreaking celebration marked the start of a new project: a small‑sided soccer pitch developed together with McKinney Chupacabras FC. The ceremony brought together local fans, city officials and members of the brewery’s team, underscoring the shared vision of a space that welcomes players of all ages.
Connor Sides, business operations manager for the Chupacabras, emphasized that the pitch is intended to be more than a venue for organized competition. "We want to create a welcoming space where soccer can thrive beyond the confines of a league," he said, highlighting plans for pickup games, youth programming and community watch parties.
The Chupacabras Pitch will feature a compact, artificial‑turf surface designed for five‑a‑side and seven‑a‑side matches. Its layout encourages fast‑paced play and makes the sport accessible to newcomers who might find full‑size fields intimidating.
North Texas readies for a summer of soccer
With the FIFA World Cup 2026 on the horizon, North Texas is positioning itself as a hub for soccer enthusiasm. The region’s growing youth participation and the popularity of small‑sided formats have sparked a wave of grassroots activity, and the new pitch is a tangible expression of that momentum.
Beyond the field itself, the partnership aims to weave soccer into the fabric of local life. By offering free community events and integrating the pitch into the brewery’s existing event calendar, organizers hope to foster a sense of belonging that extends far beyond the game.
Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup
As the countdown to the World Cup continues, the Chupacabras Pitch stands as a symbol of how local businesses and sports clubs can collaborate to nurture talent and community spirit. The project reflects a broader trend of Texas cities embracing soccer culture, preparing fans for the excitement that will soon reach a national stage.