USA Cup In Blaine Canceled Over COVID-19

BLAINE, MN — The National Sports Center announced Thursday that the 2020 Target USA Cup has been canceled, as well as all other leagues and tournaments scheduled at the center through July. "Due to COVID-19, the safety risk, and the implications it has caused around the world, we are unable to host these events including the international youth soccer tournament this year," the center announced.

The USA Cup, held each July, draws soccer teams from across the globe. It's the largest youth soccer tournament in the Western Hemisphere, according to the city of Blaine.

Don't miss the latest coronavirus updates from health and government officials in Minnesota. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters for what you need to know daily.

"For 35 years Target USA CUP has been known for being much more than just a soccer tournament. The international flare from players and referees, the variety of activities around campus during the week, pin trading and our Opening Ceremonies event all help to create our one-of-a-kind experience," Todd Johnson, Executive Director of the National Sports Center, said in a statement.

"In addition to safety, we knew that it would be impossible for us to create an event with the caliber of activities and offerings that our players have come to look forward to year after year."

The National Sports Center says it looks forward to welcoming teams and fans back to a "bigger and better event" in 2021