At 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 1, a sky jumper carrying an American flag will land on the Soccer Complex field to kick off the 2012 Mead C.U.S.A Cup.

This will mark the first time the tournament has been hosted in West Carrollton and the first major economic development boost resulting from the newly reconstructed I-75 Exit 47 interchange.

The fields, located at 4800 Hydraulic Rd., will be the site for the U-14 Boys and Girls games. The other tournament locations are Ankeney Soccer Complex in Beavercreek and Oak Grove Park in Centerville.

Approximately 8,000 players and thousands more parents, volunteers and officials are expected to visit the Miami Valley during the Labor Day weekend for the tournament, which is organized by the Centerville United Soccer Association.

 “We’re excited for the opportunity to showcase our fields to thousands of visitors,” said Christian Mattingly, West Carrollton parks and recreation director. “We know that our local businesses will welcome the additional traffic that weekend too,” he said.

Organizers estimate that the tournament, now in its 33rd year, brings $8 million in revenue to the Miami Valley economy. The recent completion of the I-75 Exit 47 interchange played a major role in the complex, which has been in existence since 1992, being selected for the tournament.

“It’s a lot easier to explain to people how to get in and out of the complex now,” Mattingly said. About 84 games will be played during Sept. 1-2 at the West Carrollton complex. -end-

For more information, call Christian Mattingly at (937) 859-5181 x2. For more information about the soccer tournament, contact Brett Thompson, CUSA executive director, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .