ROCKINGHAM — A local soccer tournament will return this summer after missing out in 2020.
The sixth Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes & Fries 3v3 soccer tournament will be held at Browder Park on July 24, event organizers Keith and Colleen Parsons announced on Monday.
Prior to the event being canceled last year because of the pandemic, the small-sided soccer tournament was held for five straight years.
The Parsons started the annual event in 2015 as a way to give local soccer enthusiasts of all ages a chance to play competitively and have fun.
“I am glad everything is getting back toward normalcy, for sure,” Keith Parsons said of the return. “Colleen and I are excited to be putting it together again, and so far, many people have expressed interest in participating.
“I hope we have our largest number of teams and everyone has the opportunity to get out for some soccer and other fun activities.”
In 2019, over 100 athletes from six counties across North and South Carolina competed in the event. A total of 22 teams competed in four divisions.
Keith Parsons said he’s hoping to have divisions for middle school girls and middle school boys, high school girls and high school boys, an open division and a group for players over 35 years of age.
He added that the number of divisions will depend on the interest the tournament receives.
The cost is $125 per team before July 1, and $150 per team through July 9, which is when registration will close to give organizers time to prepare for the event.
“The goals for the event are always the same — everyone has fun, and everyone gets exposed to a unique style of soccer,” Parsons said. “I enjoy traditional soccer, and watching 3v3 is another great way to enjoy the world’s most popular sport.
“The pace of the game, the number of scoring opportunities and the quick turnaround make this a fun-filled day,” he added. “Certainly, for the younger groups, helping them have the opportunity to improve their skills is another reason we started this, and we would like to see that continue.”
To register, teams can contact Keith Parsons or stop by and see Colleen Parsons at The Embroidery Corner at 1702A E. Broad Avenue in Rockingham.
“As always, thanks to J.R. Cottle and Crystal Cottle at Hwy 55 for their support, and thanks to everyone with the City of Rockingham for their help,” Parsons closed.
