The Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) recently hosted its 2024 Cleveland Grimes Friendship Cup at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Murfreesboro. The event is held in memory of Cleveland Grimes, who previously served as a TSSA Board Member and Executive Vice President, and it is open to all Division 4 Recreational Teams that are registered with TSSA.
“This recreational soccer tournament is held to promote the ideals of fun and learning that were hallmarks of Cleveland’s role in promoting youth soccer in Tennessee,” said Teresa Harrison, Vice President of Youth Recreational for the Tennessee State Soccer Association.
Cleveland Grimes made countless contributions to soccer throughout his lifetime, coaching and refereeing at all stages of the game in addition to his various leadership roles. However, it was at the recreation level that he truly found his love for the sport.
The Cleveland Grimes Friendship Cup was hosted in unison with TSSA State League matches that were being played at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex, creating a fully vibrant festival atmosphere throughout the facility. Participants in the Friendship Cup were able to showcase their skills against different competition than what they normally see within their respective organizations, and the event also provided a great opportunity for local referees to officiate a wider base of games.
The theme of the Cleveland Grimes Friendship Cup is “all about having fun” and celebrating grassroots soccer, the spirit of friendship and sportsmanship. Plans are already underway for the next Cleveland Grimes Friendship Cup, which is scheduled to take place at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex during the weekend of May 17-18, 2025. Stay tuned to the TSSA website for updates about that event as it gets closer.
