Submitted by FC Olympia
From annual youth soccer tournaments to global soccer events, this summer in Olympia and Lacey will be action packed. Today the Oly Soccer Foundation provides a sneak peek at what Thurston County can expect from local soccer this spring and summer of 2026.
Thurston County Youth Tournaments & Leagues
Each summer, one of the region’s longest-running traditions returns: the Kick In the Grass Tournament hosted by the Tumwater Soccer Club. Now in its decades long run the tournament brings together teams from across Washington and Oregon. For more info head to their website.
Tournaments, summer leagues and camps across Thurston County provide young players opportunities to grow their skills and stay active. Make sure to check out Artesian summer camps provided by FC Olympia by clicking here.
RCL and WPL year-around club soccer tryouts are coming up as well as recreational soccer with TC United, Blackhills FC and local recreational programs. Be sure to visit club websites for tryout dates and registration info.
World’s Game Comes to Olympia, Washington
In 2026 global soccer arrives right here at home. Thurston County has been selected as one of Washington’s official FIFA World Cup Fan Zone locations with Olympia and Lacey combining efforts to host a regional hub for fans.
The Olympia-Lacey Fan Zone is expected to take place at the Port of Olympia and will feature live match broadcasts on large screen displays, entertainment and interactive fan experiences. Make sure to visit the Thurston County Chamber website for more info.
As Seattle hosts World Cup matches just an hour north folks visiting Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater can attend FC Olympia matches featuring USL path to pro athletes from around the world. Visit FC Olympia website for schedule and ticket info.
Adult Recreation & WA Senior Games in Lacey, Washington
Looking for easy going or competitive adult soccer from adult open leagues, coed and senior soccer?
SWSA (Southwest Adult Soccer Association) has regular seasonal leagues for adults in a competitive and recreational environments. Check out swsa.soccer/home for league and registration info.
The Washington State Senior games is back in 2026 with the soccer portion taking place August 1-2 at the Regional Athletic Complex in Lacey, Washington. 50+, 60+, 70+ and Walking soccer options are available. Sign up today on the Washington State Senior Games website for registration info.
Geoducks, Clippers Soccer Return
The South Sound is also home to several collegiate soccer programs that help shape the next generation of players:
The Evergreen State College – NAIA men’s and women’s soccer competing in the CCC. Brand new signings are competing in spring ball in preparation for a great fall season under incumbent head men’s coach Steve Schmidt. Kate Green, head coach of the Geoduck women looks to bounce back in division play this fall as well.
Saint Martin’s University – DII soccer in the WCC based based in Lacey, Washington. Men’s and women’s soccer. Local coaching legend Rob Walker returns to helm the men’s soccer team and looks to make waves at the division two collegiate level for SMU.
South Puget Sound Community College – JUCO soccer competing in the NWAC. Men’s and women’s soccer. Max Sampson, head coach for the men’s team looks to get on the NWAC board with early wins. Ben Willis is in year two with the women’s program and signed international talent to spearhead a dangerous Clipper attack.
All of these programs begin regular season matches in August, make sure to follow them on social media for live updates and schedule releases.
Fifth Season of USL Soccer Returns to the South Sound
The Artesians (are-TEE-shuns) welcome collegiate athletes from around the United States and world as they embark on their fifth season of path to pro men’s USL League Two soccer as well as their fourth year of USL Women’s soccer.
Theme nights have been announced, including USL Soccer Fest May 9, 2026, at the Regional Athletic Complex, which will feature inflatable obstacle courses for kids, balloon tying, food trucks and a USL doubleheader with the women kicking off at 2:30 p.m. and the men at 6:30 p.m.
Various promos and tickets including Lacey Firefighter Night, Sounders Jersey Auction, Pride Night and more can be found at the FC Olympia website. More locally based elite high school and college soccer players will be featured on Evergreen Premier League teams for both men and women competing for FC Olympia.
Be sure to follow FC Olympia on Instagram @weareoly and Facebook for live updates and news. To subscribe to FC Olympia emails click here.
