A National Stage for Young Talent
The U.S. Youth Soccer National Presidents Cup is currently taking place in Wichita, Kansas, drawing the nation’s most promising youth players to the Scheels Stryker Sports Complex.
Over the next three years the tournament is projected to generate roughly $12 million in economic activity for the city, a boost that Visit Wichita hopes will ripple through local businesses and hospitality venues.
A Public Spectacle
Admission is free and the event is open to the public, with an estimated 6,000 participants and supporters expected to attend across the multi‑day schedule.
Families travel from across the country, turning the competition into a weekend of both sport and cultural exchange.
Stories From the Fields
Among the competitors is Ek Stewart, a midfielder with CVYSA Blast Blue U17G from North Carolina, who sees the tournament as a chance to showcase his abilities on a national stage.
Lydia Wood, also part of the same North Carolina squad, shares that excitement, while Memphis Lopez represents IFFC Idado Fall FC, adding another regional voice to the mix.
Ella Barkley, another member of the Blast Blue U17G, and Lyndsey Sessions, mother of a player from IFFC Idado Fall FC, highlight the supportive atmosphere that families bring to the games.
Jemelle Holopirek, director of public relations for Visit Wichita, notes that the concurrent World Cup adds an extra layer of inspiration, motivating young athletes to dream big.
The tournament will run through Saturday, offering a full slate of matches that are as much a celebration of community as they are of competition.