Outdoor soccer in northern climates runs into certain obstacles. Like, say, the fact that winter happens. And it just keeps happening. For months! Sure, you can find an athletic dome or some abandoned warehouse in Chaska to get your fix, but it’s just not the same as taking the pitch in fresh air under a cold blue sky. Also, there’s a really good chance that you’re trespassing in that warehouse. Nobody got permission and the landlord is showing up “with my boys.”
Boot soccer, then, is an ideal way to quench your thirst for the beautiful game without being pursued by Carver County toughs. And now you can play (or watch) at our Destination Brewery.
Minnesota United and Surly are teaming up to present the first Rising North Boot Soccer Tournament on Sunday, February 18 as part of Minnesota United’s Countdown to Kickoff. The five-on-five matches will have 16 teams vying for dominance in their snow boots at Surly Festival Field next to the Destination Brewery.
Last year, the Surly Destination Brewery hosted the Official Pre-Match Party before every Minnesota United home match, quickly becoming the go-to location for fans before heading to TCF Bank Stadium. This season, Surly will once again host the Official Pre-Match Party for home matches in addition to the Rising North Boot Soccer Tournament.
“Winters are long in Minnesota, but that’s not going to stop us from having fun while we wait for spring and Minnesota United’s home opener,” said Omar Ansari, owner and founder, Surly Brewing Co. “The Rising North Boot Soccer Tournament is a great way to get your soccer fix and Surly is happy to host it at Festival Field.”
“Surly has been a marvelous partner for us from the very beginning,” said MNUFC CEO Chris Wright. “The way they’ve embraced soccer — from hosting the Pre-Match Party to the release of Rising North Pale Ale to this tournament — is a testament to the sport’s power when it comes to culture and community. Our goal is for this relationship to continue to grow in parallel with the growth of our club and our fanbase for years to come.”
The Rising North Boot Soccer Tournament is a free event and open to the public to cheer on their favorite teams and enjoy soccer in the winter. Participating teams will have a maximum of ten players over the age of 18, must be coed and open to any skill level. Team registration is $50 for up to 10 players and includes 10 free Surly beer or soda tickets. There will also be heated tents, food, beverages, and merchandise available for purchase. Teams can register here through Friday, February 9, or until all 16 team slots are filled. The victors of the day will take home bragging rights, an oversized trophy, and a Minnesota United/Surly experience.
Event Details
What: Rising North Boot Soccer Tournament
Where: Surly Festival Field
When: Sunday, February 18 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Cost:
- Registration is $50 per team, must be 18+, open to all skill levels, snow boots required. Link to register: http://www.tempotickets.com/RisingNorthBootSoccer
- Event is free and open to the public to watch, cheer on their favorite team and enjoy winter soccer.
Watch Minnesota United and Surly Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for more details on the Rising North Boot Soccer Tournament. #ScarvesUpMN.
