Redoubt Soccer, Chattanooga Futbol Club, North River Soccer and the East Ridge Futbol Club are organizing a premiere soccer event that is expected to bring many competitive teams to the Chattanooga area.
North River President Mark Harrison is excited about the opportunities created by the organizations teaming up to present the Scenic City Cup.
"I think this has been needed for a long time," Mr. Harrison said. "Knoxville, Nashville and Birmingham have worked together to put together big tournaments, but it hasn't been done here. This is something that will showcase all of our facilities."
The Scenic City Cup will be played at North River Soccer, Redoubt Soccer and Camp Jordan Park.
Redoubt board member Greg Love said he is shooting for more than 200 teams to enter this year.
"This will benefit the city and should provide a big economic impact to the area," Mr. Love said.
Chattanooga Futbol Club executive Krue Brock said he was encouraged to see the soccer community come together to host this tournament.
"We get to invite people from all over the Southeast to come to our beautiful area and enjoy the beautiful game. It's a true team effort," Mr. Brock said.
East Ridge Futbol Club President Jon Hooper said this effort is something he has been talking about for more than 15 years.
East Ridge Parks and Recreation Director Stump Martin said the facilities being used for the event are first class and the Chattanooga area is a perfect location to attract teams.
"The Scenic City Cup just makes sense," Mr. Martin said. "This is a strong effort to showcase Chattanooga soccer and allow our athletes to play in a big time tournament at home. Chattanooga has great attractions and the area soccer community has the expertise and hospitality to make this a must-attend event for premier soccer teams from everywhere."
Greater Chattanooga Sports & Events Committee President Tim Morgan has been working closely with the organizations the past few months during the Scenic City Cup planning stages.
“We’re very excited to be the host community for this inaugural soccer tournament," Mr. Morgan said. "This event is such a great opportunity to showcase throughout the Southeast all the great assets that Hamilton County offers. It’s a privilege to work alongside such an incredible and enthusiastic group of people."
Mr. Morgan has been openly complimentary of the group's efforts to bring the soccer community together on such a venture.
Scenic City Cup Tournament Director Terry Wright said the entrance fees are $425 per team for U8 through U12 and $475 per team for U13 through U18.
For more information on the Scenic City Cup and how to enter check www.sceniccitycup.com, www.soccerincollege.com/TTIntro6.aspx?tid=SCENIC or contact Terry Wright at 423 240-0047 or by email at wright2356@comcast.net