THE FOLLOWING IS AN EXPERIENCE CHAMPAIGN – URBANA RELEASE
Champaign, IL — Soccer Wars, a fast-growing national soccer festival, is making its Illinois debut at the Rantoul Family Sports Complex this summer. Scheduled for July 12–13, the inaugural event in the state marks the beginning of a three-year partnership with Experience Champaign-Urbana, the region’s certified destination management organization.
“We’re proud to announce Illinois and Experience Champaign-Urbana as the official host of our first-ever Illinois Soccer Wars event,” said Casey Clark, CEO of Soccer Wars. “When expanding across the U.S., we look for professional facilities, soccer-driven communities, and great people—and Rantoul Family Sports Complex and Experience CU check every box.”
“We are focused on bringing diverse and accessible events to the greater Champaign-Urbana area, and Soccer Wars brings an inclusive atmosphere for athletes of all kinds to show off their skills,” explains Robert White, Director of Group Sales & Partnerships for Experience Champaign-Urbana.
The two-day event will bring together players aged 8–18 from diverse backgrounds to compete in a unique, club-neutral format that emphasizes individual talent, sportsmanship, and community. Challenges include: Goalie Wars, where goalkeepers showcase their reflexes, distribution ability, and strategic prowess; Player Wars, where small-sided games emphasize individual skills with changing team dynamics; and Skill Wars, where athletes will test their speed, agility, and technical skills.
Soccer Wars is quickly becoming a nationwide sensation thanks to its mission to create inclusive, high-energy soccer events that highlight player development and local engagement.
“The incredible support from Ryan and his team at Rantoul, along with Robert from Experience CU, made the decision a no-brainer. Their belief in our mission—not just in numbers, but in impact—means everything to my family and me,” shares Clark. “At Soccer Wars, we’re creating a club-neutral, individualized soccer festival that gives every player, regardless of background, a stage to shine. This is more than a competition—it’s about giving back what I wish I had growing up.”
The event will be held at Rantoul Family Sports Complex, the state-of-the-art facility that currently hosts major regional and national sports tournaments. Experience Champaign-Urbana will provide logistical and promotional support to ensure a successful launch and sustained presence in the region over the next three years.
“With seven state soccer associations already partnered with us, we’re honored to add Illinois to our growing list of hosts. We look forward to building something meaningful here for years to come and continuing our mission to leave the game better than we found it—through fun, competition, and community for all,” states Clark.
Individuals are encouraged to sign up on the Soccer Wars website at https://www.soccerwars.net/rantoul-il-city-tour-event-jul-2025. Spots are limited at just 16 players per age group.
About Experience Champaign-Urbana
Experience Champaign-Urbana is the certified destination management organization for the greater Champaign-Urbana area. Their mission is to promote a welcoming destination experience for visitors to strengthen economic opportunity and enhance the lives of residents. ECU bid on the Soccer Wars event and are assisting event organizers in creating a successful event. Visit experiencecu.org to learn more.