2024 USYS Midwest Regional Championship Economic Impact
The 2024 U.S. Youth Soccer Midwest Regional Championships, held from June 21–26, was a major win for Visit Overland Park, the Overland Park community and the surrounding area.
OVERLAND PARK, KS – The 2024 U.S. Youth Soccer Midwest Regional Championships, held from June 21–26, was a major win for Visit Overland Park, the Overland Park community and the surrounding area. The USYS tournament was Hosted at both the Scheels Overland Park Soccer Complex and Garmin Olathe Soccer Complex, the week-long event drew more than 6,800 attendees, including 3,400 youth soccer players, families, and fans from across the Midwest.
This year’s championship marked a significant milestone for U.S. Youth Soccer, as the nation’s largest youth soccer organization celebrated its 50th anniversary. It also marked a return to the Scheels Overland Park Soccer Complex — a premier facility that has previously hosted the USYS National Championships three times. Meanwhile, the Garmin Olathe Soccer Complex welcomed its first-ever US Youth Soccer event since opening in 2019. Both complexes’ showcased the ability to deliver exceptional experiences for players, parents, referees, and volunteers.
“The Scheels Overland Park Soccer Complex was built to attract major tournaments like this, providing a significant boost to our local economy while introducing visitors to Overland Park’s diverse attractions and hospitality,” said Mayor Curt Skoog of Overland Park. “We are thrilled to welcome so many athletes, families, and coaches and invite them to experience all that Overland Park has to offer, both on and off the field.”
The tournament’s overall economic impact reached $7 million across the Kansas City metro area, with Overland Park alone benefiting from $2.4 million in direct spending. The influx of visitors contributed to more than 3,500 room nights in Overland Park hotels, resulting in a 14% increase in average daily rates and a 13% boost in occupancy compared to the same period in 2023. Overall, hotel revenue during the championship saw a 33% increase, solidifying the city’s status as a top destination for youth sports tourism.
“We are honored that U.S. Youth Soccer recognizes the strength of our community, our facilities, and our ability to host these prestigious championships,” said Eric Olson, Vice President of Sports and Events for Visit Overland Park. “Their selection of Overland Park is further validation of our commitment to making this city a go-to destination for high-caliber events that drive positive economic impact.”
Visit Overland Park launched a sports tourism strategy in the Fall of 2022. “ This summer’s outstanding championship is further evidence that Visit Overland Park’s successful sports tourism strategy continues to deliver positive economic impact for the residents of Overland Park. We look forward to welcoming the USYS Midwest Championships back to Overland Park in 2025 along with other impactful targeted events,” said Warren Wilkinson, President & CEO of Visit Overland Park.
With successful events like the 2024 Midwest Regional Championships, Overland Park continues to establish itself as a premier destination for youth sports, enhancing the community’s profile and supporting local businesses through sports tourism.
About Visit Overland Park
Visit Overland Park serves as the official marketing organization for the city of Overland Park, Kansas. The organization is responsible for promoting the city as an attractive travel destination and enhancing its public image as a dynamic place to visit, live and work. The mission of Visit OP is to improve the quality of life for Overland Park residents through the economic and community benefits of tourism. For more information, go to visitoverlandpark.com.
About the United States Youth Soccer Association (US Youth Soccer)
US Youth Soccer, the largest youth sport organization in the country, is on a mission to provide world-class support, resources, and leadership, helping every member fulfill their goals on and off the field of play. US Youth Soccer registers nearly 2.5 million players annually. Through its programming, resources and leadership, US Youth Soccer is advancing the game for its 54 Member State Associations, 10,000 clubs and leagues and one million administrators, coaches, and volunteers. US Youth Soccer connects families and communities to the power of sports and its shared love of soccer. US Youth Soccer