Southwest Florida Embraces World Cup Excitement This Summer

WHO:

thealpenanews.com - Josh Schultz, president of the Thunder Bay Soccer Association (TBSA), is encouraging local youth to watch World Cup games.

The Naples Press - Residents and visitors in southwest Florida are engaging with World Cup events.

WHAT:

thealpenanews.com - TBSA has maintained an average of 375 players over the last three seasons despite competition from other sports.

thealpenanews.com - TBSA added a U10 girls travel team last fall and introduced a U10 boys’ team this fall.

The Naples Press - Southwest Florida is experiencing heightened excitement and engagement due to the World Cup.

CBS 19 News - The World Cup bracket was released on July 9, 2026.

WHERE:

The Naples Press - The events are taking place in southwest Florida.

WHEN:

thealpenanews.com - Registration for fall 2026 programs is open through August 9.

CBS 19 News - The World Cup bracket was released on July 9, 2026, with matches scheduled to occur throughout the summer.

WHY:

The Naples Press - The excitement is attributed to the global nature of the World Cup and its ability to bring communities together.

HOW:

thealpenanews.com - TBSA is hosting a referee class in Alpena on August 9 to strengthen the local officiating pool.

The Naples Press - Local businesses and organizations are hosting viewing parties and events to celebrate the World Cup.

Josh Schultz, president of the Thunder Bay Soccer Association, is encouraging local youth to tune in to the World Cup games. The association has maintained an impressive average of 375 players over the last three seasons, even adding a U10 girls travel team last fall and a U10 boys’ team this fall. Registration for fall 2026 programs is open until August 9, and on that same day, TBSA will host a referee class in Alpena to bolster the local officiating pool.