SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO-AM) — The 2017 US Youth Soccer Region II (Midwest) Championships start today.
The top 224 Boys and Girls US Youth Soccer teams in the 13 and Under through 19/20 and Under age groups from Region II will compete at Yankton Trail Park during the event. With a direct estimated economic impact of $10 million and an indirect estimated economic impact of $7 million, the event is expected to have a significant influence on the community.
“Sioux Falls is honored to have the opportunity to host the 2017 Region II Championships,” said Sioux Falls Mayor Mike Huether. “An event of this caliber brings such excitement and economic benefit to a community. From hotels and restaurants to retail and attractions, we realize the impact of hosting the event will be felt throughout the city!”
Local restaurants, hotels, retail stores and others will benefit from the more than 4,900 players, along with the team coaches, tournament officials, college coaches and numerous spectators attending the six-day tournament.
Visitors to the Sioux Falls, S.D., area will book an estimated 14,000 room nights at surrounding hotels.
"Sioux Falls is a familiar host for the Region II Championships as the area also held the event in 1999, 2005 and 2009," said Region II Championships Chair Jonathan Meersman.
The event consists of US Youth Soccer State Champions from 14 state associations, including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio South, Ohio North, South Dakota and Wisconsin. US Youth Soccer Midwest Regional League Premier Division champions and select wild cards will also join the State Champions at the event.
Regional winners earn a berth to the 2017 US Youth Soccer National Championships in Frisco, Texas.
Schedule for 2017 US Youth Soccer Region II Championships | Sioux Falls, S.D.
Yankton Trail Park
Preliminary Games: June 23-25
Semis: June 27
Finals: June 28
