20th Sudanese American Soccer Federation tourney at MBL Park Nov. 26-28
The Sudanese American Soccer Federation is hosting its 20th Annual Championship at Mayor Bob Leonard Park starting today (Nov. 26) and running through Saturday, Nov. 28.
The group is a non-profit North American-based organization, which operates as an amateur soccer league for young adults, according to a Town press release.
Officials with the Town Park & Recreation Department estimate as many as 500 visitors could be expected, as teams from at least 16 states will be participating.
Additionally, Sudanese cuisine will be available for all those attending, and merchandise also will be for sale, the press release further stated.
The unique opportunity to host the group has been in the works for some time, Parks & Recreation director Sue Stuhl said.
“We believe someone that is part of that community lives in the area, and when their tournament officials were looking for a home for this year’s tournament, they contacted our Parks and Athletics coordinator,” she said. “The three synthetic fields and the location of Farragut is a big draw for tournaments of a certain size, and we already have quite a few tournaments scheduled for 2021.
Those attending are asked to wear masks and practice social distancing during the event. Temperature screenings will take place on site as a precaution, the press release added.
Hobie Bass Open
The Soccer tournament comes on the heels of Farragut Community Center hosting the Second Annual Hobie Bass Open Series Tournament of Champions Kayak Fishing Tournament Nov. 12-15, which was booked through Visit Knoxville.
Chad Culver, senior director of Visit Knoxville’s sports commission, said the event “was great. Saturday and Sunday we had 50 anglers from 16 states, including six from Tennessee. First- and second-place went to Tennesseans — Hobie gave out over $60,000 in prize money.”
As far as having activities during the time of COVID-19, Stuhl said she and Town staff have been overjoyed.
“The Parks and Recreation Department is thrilled that there are still safe outdoor events for the community to enjoy, and that we have visitors coming to Town,” she said. “We are so fortunate to have Town leadership that has placed a high priority on our parks and greenways — which is really paying off in a big way during the pandemic.”
