It may be winter, but things are already heating up for Tucsonβs soccer scene.
Professional preseason soccer is back in Tucson as FC Tucsonβs annual Desert Showcase returns for its 16th year.
This yearβs Desert Showcase brings five soccer clubs to the Old Pueblo, including Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, Louisville City FC, New Mexico United, Vision FC and Spokane Velocity FC.
The teams have been participating in preseason training and practice matches at Kino Sports Complex since last week. But this weekend, Tucsonans will have the opportunity to take in preseason soccer at the only public match of the event.
New Mexico United and Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC go head-to-head at noon on Sunday at Kino North Stadium.
Tickets start at $15.75 and can be purchased online at fctucson.com.Β
Chicago's Federico Navarro brings down a ball near midfield in the first half against the Sacramento Republic in their Desert Showcase game in Tucson Feb. 8, 2023.
βItβs special to not only host preseason training again, but to also provide our community with a marquee, ticketed match featuring two top USL Championship clubs,β said Jon Pearlman, the owner and president of FC Tucson. βThis game on February 8 is a great opportunity for fans to experience professional soccer up close, while also showcasing why Tucson continues to be a premier destination for preseason soccer. For 16 straight years, our partnership with Visit Tucson and Pima County has helped make events like this possible.β
Before the Desert Showcase match on Sunday, there will also be a youth soccer clinic held at Fields 2 and 3 from 9:30Β to 11:15 a.m.
The clinic is open to boys and girls ages 4-10. Registration is $35. Those interested in signing a child up can register online atΒ fctucson.com/desert-showcase-youth-soccer-clinic.Β
Anthony Markanich (31) dribbles down the field as Grayson Barber (19) tugs Markanich's jersey during the Sporting Kansas City vs. Colorado Rapids game as part of Tucson's Desert Showcase series on Jan. 29, 2022, at Kino Sports Complex.
Participants will also receive one ticket (per registrant) for the Desert Showcase soccer match at noon.
The clinic will be led by FC Tucsonβs coaching staff and players. Participants are encouraged to bring their own cleats, a water bottle and a soccer ball.
FC Tucsonβs Desert Showcase will officially conclude on Feb. 25.
For more information about the showcase, visit fctucson.com.
