By Steve Lee
Sports Editor
WESLEY CHAPEL — The Kohl’s U.S. Youth Soccer American Cup has tabbed Wesley Chapel District Park for an Oct. 31-Nov. 1 tournament.
The recreational series will feature about 1,500 boys and girls on 85 teams competing in Under-8 to Under-14 divisions. Teams come from Region III, which consists of eight southeastern states including Florida.
“It’s an honor for Wesley Chapel to be hosting such a high-level tournament,” said Vicky King, the Land O’ Lakes High girls soccer coach who also has coached and refereed throughout Pasco and Hillsborough counties.
Kohl’s American Cup began in 2000 to showcase recreational-level players and promote fait play. The focus is on equal playing time with participation taking precedence over competition.
The tourney is not nearly as competitive as the Sun Bowl, a series for high-level players that takes place each December throughout the Tampa Bay region. The Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex and Ed Radice Sports Complex in northern Hillsborough have hosted Sun Bowl games.
Kohl’s American Cup is a series of 70 tourneys played thoughout the nation from February through December. Players must be registered with a U.S. Soccer State Association recreational league to be eligible.
Wesley Chapel District Park is located at 7727 Boyette Road. Admission is free.
