The Soccer Tournament to Stay in Cary, NC Through 2029
Cary, North Carolina, has solidified its position as a premier destination for international soccer by securing a long-term partnership with The Soccer Tournament (TST). This exciting extension ensures that the dynamic 7v7 soccer festival will call WakeMed Soccer Park home through 2029. The agreement, bolstered by a significant grant from the NC Department of Commerce, marks a major commitment to sports tourism and community engagement in the Heart of North Carolina.
The partnership is supported by a strategic investment from the North Carolina Department of Commerce's Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund. This grant is designated to reimburse eligible in-state expenses, with a commitment of up to $6.8 million over the course of the multi-year agreement. This state-level endorsement underscores the event's substantial economic and cultural value.
A Community's Passion for the Game
The success of TST in Cary is consistently attributed to the people who bring it to life. Mayor Harold Weinbrecht emphasized that the city's greatest asset is its community. He highlighted the dedication of staff, volunteers, and citizens who take immense pride in creating a welcoming atmosphere for every visitor. The state's financial investment is seen as a direct recognition of this community spirit, coupled with the exceptional quality of Cary's sporting facilities. This shared pride ensures that TST remains a cherished event for both locals and international guests.
TST's Meteoric Rise in Cary
Now entering its fourth year in Cary, The Soccer Tournament has experienced remarkable growth, evolving from a novel concept into a globally recognized soccer spectacle. The 2025 event was a landmark year, showcasing significant expansions and record-breaking metrics that highlight its escalating popularity.
Key Growth Metrics (2025 Event):
| Metric | 2025 Achievement | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Women's Tournament | Doubled to 16 teams | Demonstrates commitment to gender equality and expanding the women's game. |
| Total Attendance | 51,730 (Record) | Reflects growing fan interest and the event's drawing power. |
| Player Representation | ~2,000 players from 34 countries | Solidifies TST's status as a truly international sporting festival. |
| Out-of-County Visitors | 31,657 fans | Highlights success in driving tourism and economic impact. |
Jon Mugar, CEO of TST, credited the Town of Cary and its residents as instrumental partners in the tournament's ascent. He stated that the community's support has been pivotal in establishing TST as the world's leading small-sided soccer festival. The primary mission remains delivering an unforgettable experience for every fan and participant, thereby cementing its reputation as a must-visit global soccer destination.
Beyond the Pitch: The Festival Experience
TST has successfully transcended the boundaries of a traditional soccer tournament, creating a vibrant festival atmosphere that appeals to a broad audience. The 2025 edition featured an expanded footprint with numerous engaging elements:
- Club Activations: Interactive zones and experiences hosted by participating clubs, allowing fans to connect with their favorite teams in unique ways.
- International Cuisine: A diverse array of food options celebrated the global nature of the event, offering culinary delights from around the world.
- Major Media Presence: The festival was amplified by two live broadcasts of ESPN's popular "The Pat McAfee Show," bringing national attention to the event and the Cary community.
The success of this immersive experience is reflected in post-event surveys, where an overwhelming majority of attendees affirmed its quality. A remarkable 80% of surveyed fans rated TST as the best soccer event they had attended in the past year, and 87% indicated they would enthusiastically recommend it to friends and family.
Tangible Economic Benefits for Cary and Wake County
The partnership with TST is not just about sporting prestige; it delivers measurable economic returns. According to data from the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau, the tournament has become a significant economic engine for the region.
Economic Impact Breakdown:
- Total Impact Since 2024: TST has generated a cumulative economic impact of $23.9 million for Cary and Wake County.
- 2025 Direct Economic Impact: The most recent tournament alone produced an estimated $14.7 million in direct economic impact.
- Local Tax Revenue: The event contributed over $547,000 to local tax coffers, funding community services and infrastructure.
- Tourism Boost: TST 2025 generated close to 20,000 room nights in local hotels, providing crucial business for the hospitality sector.
This data confirms that the tournament successfully attracts visitors from across the nation and beyond, with fans traveling from all 50 states, Canada, and the United Kingdom to be part of the action.
The Premier Venue: WakeMed Soccer Park
Since its inception in 2023, TST has been hosted at the renowned WakeMed Soccer Park. This 158-acre complex is a cornerstone of Cary's identity as a sports hub. Its state-of-the-art facilities, multiple pristine pitches, and central location make it the ideal home for a festival of TST's scale and ambition. The long-term extension guarantees that this world-class venue will continue to be the backdrop for the tournament's most thrilling moments for years to come.
The long-term extension of The Soccer Tournament in Cary represents a win-win for all involved. It guarantees the continued growth of a world-class sporting event, delivers sustained economic benefits to the community, and provides soccer fans with an unparalleled festival experience. This partnership firmly plants Cary on the global soccer map and promises exciting developments for the beautiful game in North Carolina through the end of the decade.
