BLAINE, Minn.- (July 19,2018)- Since 1985 the USA Cup in Blaine has been a soccer destination. Starting with 69 teams in its first year then growing to 1150 teams this year, USA Cup is the largest soccer tournament in the Western Hemisphere. While the cup offers players the chance to compete against teams from all over the world and potentially win a title, it also offers the chance for players to meet idols and create memories. One of the highlights this year was a visit from soccer celebrities Kelley O’Hara and Mia Hamm.
O’Hara, a current member of the US Women’s National Team, interacted with fans this week at the Invisalign booth.
“I feel like I’m back in my youth reliving my club days,” O’Hara said. O’Hara signed autographs, took pictures and wished players good luck in the tournament.
The next day, soccer legend Mia Hamm made an appearance. Hamm has played plenty games at the National Sports Center in the past and was glad to be back.
“I’ve been back here before with the Women’s National Team and played many games here. It’s great to be back,” said Hamm
Hamm loved seeing how USA Cup has evolved into being about more than just a soccer tournament.
“You want to make it a destination where people enjoy themselves and that they have opportunities to eat, get out of the sun, and for the younger kids that maybe aren’t playing yet, to enjoy themselves,” said Hamm. She has fond memories of playing with the US Women’s National Team at the sports center. In 2004 it was the site of a career milestone; her 150th career international goal.
“Every time we’ve been able to play here the reception has always been tremendous.” She said. “Obviously crossing a career milestone like 150th means a lot and to do it, kind come full circle, and do it when this is where I started is very special.”
Hamm was on hand for a special presentation to a team from Oklahoma who had their tournament fees paid for by Schwan’s as a part of the Schwan’s Cares program. As a mom of young soccer players, Hamm is pleased to see the game continue on.
“You come to tournaments like Schwan’s USA Cup and you just see it continuing to grow. I think obviously as country we always trying to find new ways to help players develop, making sure it’s a game for everyone,” Hamm said, “anyway I can help and be a part of that is important for me.”
At Schwan’s USA Cup there are thousands of soccer games played during the tournament but there are also magically moments that these young players will remember for a long time to come.
