06/06/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/06/2025 08:30
CARY, N.C. - The Town of Cary, in coordination with The Soccer Tournament (TST), is launching The Cary Cup this week as the nation's first 7v7 youth soccer tournament to use TST's fast-paced Target Score Time™, ensuring every match ends on a game-winning goal.
"We're excited to offer this innovative tournament with TST and our regional partners for the next generation of players," said John Collins, Cary's director of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services. "It's a true team effort, and our staff continue to do just an incredible job to provide the very best experience for players and fans across all our facilities."
More than 130 teams representing nearly 60 clubs will take the field starting today, June 6, with divisions spanning U11 through U19. Group play will take place at Thomas Brooks Park and Middle Creek Park in Cary, and Pleasant Park in neighboring Apex-all offering a family-friendly, festival-style atmosphere.
Finalists will compete for The Cary Cup title on Sunday, June 8, at WakeMed Soccer Park, on the same fields where TST's biggest stars and celebrities will play in that tournament's semifinals.
While youth teams are traveling from Virginia, Georgia, Arkansas, and Maryland, most are from North Carolina, particularly throughout Research Triangle region. Ranked among Sports Business Journal's Best Sports Business Cities for Soccer, the Triangle is known for its vibrant community and love of the game.
The Cary Cup builds on the momentum of TST, now in its third year at WakeMed Soccer Park, and supports the Town's ongoing efforts to foster economic growth through sports-driven events. Many teams and families arrived early to take advantage of complimentary TST multi-session tickets, which grant access to the first four days of men's and women's matches in the $1 million, winner-take-all professional tournament.
Through 2023, sports tourism in Cary has drawn over 10.5 million visitors, contributing nearly $300 million to the local economy. For more information, visit carync.gov/TheCaryCup.
About Cary, North Carolina
With excellence and innovation at its core, Cary is a thriving community of around 190,000 residents representing more than 60 nationalities, positioned at the heart of North Carolina's renowned Research Triangle Park region. Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as the No. 1 Best Place to Live in North Carolina and No. 5 in the nation for 2025-2026, Cary is known for its safe neighborhoods, extensive greenways, environmental stewardship, and premier sports and cultural venues. Its "people first" philosophy drives collaboration, adaptability, and forward-thinking public investments that make Cary an exceptional place to call home and an inspiring destination for visitors. For more information, visit CaryNC.gov/about and follow us on social media @caryncgov.
About The Soccer Tournament (TST)
About WakeMed Soccer Park
WakeMed Soccer Park is the Town of Cary's 158-acre sports complex renowned for hosting premier soccer events at all levels. Since 2004, it has evolved into a central hub for professional, collegiate, and community soccer. Home to professional teams the NC Courage and North Carolina Football Club, the facility is designed to support a wide range of events, from international tournaments to local festivals, as well as sports, from high school football to polo.Primary Contacts
If you have specific questions about Town services or operations, dial 311 anywhere in Cary, (919) 469-4000 outside town limits, or email 311@carync.gov.
Resources
• The Cary Cup
• The Soccer Tournament
• WakeMed Soccer Park