Veterans Invitational Soccer Tournament Announces Changes for 2015

The annual Veterans Invitational Soccer Tournament, scheduled for this weekend and next weekend at the Goebel Soccer Complex, announces a few new tweaks to the format for 2015.

One noticeable change will take place off the field as the formal Opening Ceremony will be replaced with a recognition of veterans through the use of luminaries placed at the entrance of the complex and playing fields themselves. Teams will have the opportunity to create their own message and design after picking up their luminary with their registration packet. Proceeds from the sale of the luminaries will be shared with the Wounded Warriors Project and a fund for future soccer opportunities for area youth according to a press release provided by Evansville Visitors and Convention Bureau.

A canned food drive to benefit local food pantries will also take place with donations being accepted at the main headquarters for the Tournament at the Goebel Soccer Complex.

An organizational change has also been announced as the Indiana Fire Juniors South Soccer Club now organizes the tournament and brings with it a new vision for the future of the tournament.

In a statement provided by the Evansville Visitors and Convention Bureau, Indiana Fire spokesperson K.C. Bennett said,

The new vision is to elevate the status of the tournament...Both weekends promise to be great opportunities for teams to conclude their fall season or to use as preparation for upcoming college showcase events. Either way, we pledge to put on a tournament of highest caliber.

The Evansville Convention & Visitors Bureau projects the 2015 tournament will generate over $700,500 in direct expenditures to the local economy.

For information on this year's tournament, including start times for all ages groups of boys and girls, visit the Indiana Fire Juniors South Soccer Club website.