Next generation of soccer stars take to the pitch at Tri-City United Summer Classic

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – While the greats of the game take to the pitch in the World Cup, the next generation of soccer stars are lacing up their cleats across the F-M Metro.

“We’ve got a lot of good players that can definitely play-on in college,” Tri-City United player Carson said.

Tri-City United’s Summer Classic welcomed 246 teams from across the region.

“We have to travel all the time for us to get any games at all. So for all of these teams to come to our area, and have our kids compete on their home turf is really amazing,” said Tri-City United Executive Director Kerry Wynne

And having the tournament coincide with a World Cup right here in the U.S. made it all the more special.

“Soccer is not like a big sport here in the U.S.A. but a lot of people have started to watch it now with the World Cup coming up. I think that people are getting to know soccer a little bit more now as the year goes on,” Tri-City United Player Felix said.

Over the years TC United has seen the game grow in the metro, and they’ve seen the athletes grow along with it.

“It’s so much fun to watch the players that go on and play in college, but we also have players that we’ve helped – like through our scholarship program – who are now coaching for us. And they’re now helping the next generation of players, and so I’m old enough to have seen both ends of that, and it’s really amazing to watch,” Wynne said.

But for the players, the journey isn’t over yet.

“If I was to pursue it, I think I would see myself playing somewhere in Europe. Somewhere where I could get more seen,” Felix said.

If you’re interested in getting involved with Tri-City United, you can find a link to sign up to play, coach, or referee HERE.