The international passion for soccer is coming to Lorain in August, when young talent from around the world will be invited to play at the inaugural PSA World Youth Tournament at Brad Friedel's Premier Soccer Academies.
Craig Umland, chief operating officer for the soccer academy, said six teams, from countries including Mexico, Germany, Slovenia and Brazil, have been invited to take part in the tournament. The Blackburn Rovers Academy Team from the United Kingdom has committed to participate, along with the PSA academy team.
Players will compete in two matches a day from Aug. 10 to 17. Reduced-rate tickets will be made available to members of the Ohio North Soccer Association and their families, and remaining tickets will go on sale April 1, Umland said.
''I'm very excited by the prospect of having the best talent in the world on display at our facility,'' said Brad Friedel, co-founder of Premier Soccer Academies, in a prepared statement. ''It truly will be the most competitive youth tournament in the United States.''
Umland said a stadium for 4,000 to 5,000 spectators will begin construction this spring on the grounds of the academy in Lorain. Closing ceremonies will be held at the PSA campus immediately following the championship game.
''This event is going to provide significant exposure for Lorain worldwide, and significant impact for our area,'' Umland said. The tournament will draw citizens of the countries taking part to travel to Lorain for the competition.
''That's what they do overseas,'' Umland said. ''Soccer is a passionate sport outside of our borders. That's why we're inviting international teams. The talent level of the teams will be something special to watch for all soccer fans in northeast Ohio.''
Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities will also be available, Umland said. Broadcast rights are still being researched, and could include either traditional transmission or over the Internet, he said.
Brad Friedel's Premier Soccer Academies, a non-profit organization, is the first residential soccer academy of its kind to offer full scholarships to athletes regardless of their economic or social background. Players at the academy have been recruited from around the globe.
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