Guilford High School in Rockford named IHSA Boys Soccer State Final host

The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Board of Directors met for its regularly scheduled meeting at the I Hotel in Champaign on Saturday, March 14, 2026, where the Board announced that the Boys Soccer State Finals will have a new home at Guilford High School in Rockford beginning in the fall of 2026.

"We are excited to partner with Guilford High School, Rockford Public Schools District 205, and GoRockford to bring the IHSA Boys Soccer State Finals to Rockford," said IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson. "This tournament has a storied history and we are excited for its next chapter in Rockford, which has a proven track record of putting on first-class IHSA State Final events."

Working in partnership with Guilford High School, Rockford Public Schools District 205, and GoRockford, the IHSA Boys Soccer State Finals will be held at Guilford's Swanson Stadium in November of 2026, 2027, and 2028. Guilford High School will become the 14^th venue to host the IHSA Boys Soccer State Finals.

"Guilford High School is proud to host the IHSA Boys Soccer Finals and welcome teams, coaches, and fans from across the state to our campus," said Guilford Athletic Director Grant Mason. "This event highlights the dedication, talent, and preparation of the state's top student-athletes, and we are excited, along with Go Rockford, to provide a first-class championship experience for all. We look forward to an outstanding weekend of competition and to celebrating the very best of high school soccer."

Swanson Stadium was constructed in 1969 and has a seating capacity for 4,000 fans. The venue recently received significant enhancements, including a press box renovation and the installation of new bleachers on the stadium's west side in 2025.

"We are thrilled to bring another IHSA championship event to Rockford," said Lindsay Arellano, GoRockford vice president of sales & service. "Hosting the IHSA Boys Soccer State Finals strengthens Rockford's reputation as a premier sports tourism destination and reflects the continued confidence organizations have in our community's ability to deliver an outstanding championship experience. We're excited to welcome athletes and fans from across Illinois to experience Rockford's hospitality and energy."

The IHSA Boys Soccer State Series debuted in the fall 1972, with the inaugural State Finals being held at Illinois State University's Hancock Stadium in Normal. The state tourney hosting duties were on a rotation between several high schools at one point, leading to nine different state final venues between 1982 and 1997. North Central College in Naperville (2000-2013) and Hoffman Estates High School (2014-2025) have proven to have the longest tenure as hosts.

The Cherry Bowl in Rockford has hosted the IHSA Girls Bowling State Finals in partnership with GoRockford for over 30 years.