Cleveland Summer Kickoff

Overview

The Cleveland Summer Kickoff is a youth soccer tournament hosted by Cleveland Force SC at Lost Nation Sports Park in Willoughby, Ohio. The 2026 edition is scheduled for May 30–31, 2026. The event serves boys and girls teams across age groups U8–U19, with format divided by age: 7v7 (U8–U10), 9v9 (U11–U12), and 11v11 (U13–U19). Each team is guaranteed four 25-minute games. Free parking and free spectator entry. All games are consolidated at one venue location.

Ownership & Operations

Operated by Cleveland Force SC, a Northeast Ohio youth club that also fields a USL League Two men’s team. Lost Nation Sports Park in Willoughby serves as the sole venue, offering a single-site experience that simplifies logistics for traveling teams. The early-summer timing positions the event as a season-opening competition for clubs starting their summer campaign.

Sanctioning

Sanctioned by US Club Soccer.

Reputation & Tier

Tier 4. A regional club event drawing primarily from Northeast Ohio and adjacent Great Lakes markets. The single-venue, single-weekend format keeps it accessible for local and day-trip teams. Not a showcase event; no documented college coach attendance.

Notes

The Summer Kickoff is one of several events operated by Cleveland Force SC. The club’s connection to USL League Two lends some brand recognition in the Cleveland market, though the youth tournament operates independently of the semi-professional program.