Overland Park, KS - National attention will focus on the Overland Park Soccer Complex as it hosts the US Youth Soccer National Championships.

From July 20 to July 25, youth soccer players from across the nation will play out their dreams, strive to hit that winning goal and go home a national champion. Sixty regional championship teams will compete. Age categories are under 14 through under 19.

"We are very proud to be hosting the US Youth Soccer National Championships. This is our first national tournament, and we intend to make a great impression on the players, coaches and families," said Mayor Carl Gerlach. "The Soccer Complex has been open less than a year and has hosted numerous regional and local tournaments. This is a true acknowledgment of the well-thought out amenities and outstanding operations of this facility."

Amenities include a field cooling system to minimize the effects of the afternoon temperatures of the synthetic turf, evaporative cooling fans located next to player benches, lights for night games, electronic boards for game information and scores, wireless Web access, a playground for siblings, permanent restrooms and concession stands, plenty of parking and easy, quick access to restaurants, shops and hotels.

Pool play begins Wednesday through Friday with games times at 8 a.m., 10 a.m., and noon. Saturday's finals begin at 5 p.m. and conclude with the Under 19 boys James P. McGuire Cup at 8 p.m., which will be broadcast live by Fox Soccer Channel. All games are free to attend.

Finals are Saturday and Sunday with the Under 19 boys James P. McGuire Cup at 8 p.m. Saturday. It will be broadcast by Fox Soccer Channel.

"You will see some of the best youth soccer games here in Overland Park during this tournament. It is a must-see for soccer fans," said Mike Laplante, soccer complex manager. "This is the first time any community in Kansas or metropolitan Kansas City has hosted this tournament. We are excited."

The Overland Park Sports Alliance, a division of the Overland Park Convention & Visitors Bureau, helped lure the tournament to Overland Park and estimates more than 5,800 hotel room nights will be booked. The economic impact is expected to exceed $2.5 million.

"Hosting the US Youth Soccer Nationals will have a two-fold effect on the community," said Kelly Peetoom, vice president of sales for the OPCVB.

"It will place Overland Park on the map as a premier soccer location and it will provide a tremendous economic boost to our area," Peetoom said.

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Contact: Mayor Carl Gerlach, 913/895-6104
Mike Laplante, 913/685-1512, ext. 2001
Kelly Peetoom, vice president of sales, 913/491-0123