Building Momentum in the Heart of Winter
For two days this winter, the TBK Bank Sports Complex once again became the center of youth soccer in Iowa. The 2026 Iowa Soccer Copa Clásico brought together 124 teams from 26 clubs, totaling 248 games across 21 divisions while welcoming nearly 1,500 players and more than 200 coaches. What began several years ago as a way to provide quality winter competition has steadily evolved into one of the most popular events on the Iowa Soccer calendar.
With programs representing US Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer, American Youth Soccer Organization, and United States Specialty Sports Association, the tournament continues to serve a broad cross-section of the soccer landscape. That mix of affiliations gives teams the opportunity to compete against new opponents while reinforcing the shared goal of developing players across the state.
“We are absolutely thrilled to host an event that radiates such incredible energy for our players, coaches, referees, and spectators,” said Mike Wilson, Member Services Program Director at Iowa Soccer Association. “We take immense pride in creating a space where sportsmanship thrives for everyone involved. Seeing the entire soccer community—at every skill level—come together from across the state is truly the highlight of our year.”
Meaningful Winter Competition
Access to structured, high-quality games during the winter months can be limited. Copa Clásico addresses that need directly. The small-sided format keeps matches active and competitive, increasing touches on the ball and encouraging faster decision-making. For younger players, it is a chance to build confidence and game awareness. For older teams, it provides a valuable tune-up ahead of the spring season.
Across all age groups, the priority remains focused on competitive environments that support development. The result is a weekend where every game has purpose, and every team leaves sharper than when they arrived.
“We’re excited about this event and where it’s going because it reflects what soccer should be! Challenging competition, meaningful connections, and a community that continues to grow and evolve,” said Craig Winger, Chief Member Services Officer of Iowa Soccer Association. “With such a wide variety of clubs and over 200 coaches and leaders all in one place, the event goes well beyond the games, creating a unique space to connect, build relationships, and strengthen the connections among those driving the future of soccer in our state and beyond.”
A Gathering Point for the Soccer Community
Beyond the schedule, Copa Clásico has also become an important touchpoint for Iowa’s broader soccer community. With such a high number of coaches and team leaders onsite, the event naturally creates opportunities to connect, share ideas, and strengthen relationships between clubs.
Parents and families fill the stands throughout the day, adding to an atmosphere that feels organized, welcoming, and community driven. That balance of competitive matches alongside genuine connection is part of what has helped this event grow year after year.
Supporting the Game at Every Level
Tournaments of this scale rely on more than players alone. Coaches, referees, administrators, and volunteers all play a role in delivering a smooth and positive experience. Bringing those groups together under one roof creates efficiencies and encourages collaboration that extends well beyond a single weekend. This approach is a practical way to strengthen the infrastructure of the game while continuing to serve the athletes on the field.
“A successful tournament like Copa Clásico 26 doesn’t happen without quality officiating,” said Hidajet Tica, Iowa Soccer Referee & Sportsmanship Director of Iowa Soccer Association. “Our referees rose to the challenge, supported one another, and handled every match with professionalism. I’m grateful for their hard work and proud of the referee community we continue to build.”
The continued success of Copa Clásico is also tied to the partners who help make it possible. TBK Bank Sports Complex, Forest Grove Sports Complex, and Fine Designs all played prominent roles in delivering a professional, well-run event for teams and families throughout the weekend.
Looking Ahead
By the end of play on Sunday, the impact of the weekend was clear. Copa Clásico has become more than a winter tournament. It has transitioned into a reliable opportunity for players to compete, for coaches to collaborate, and for the soccer community to stay connected in between seasons. As Iowa Soccer Association continues its mission of providing accessible, high-quality playing opportunities statewide, events like Copa Clásico remain an important part of that commitment.
With steadily increasing participation and strong community support, Copa Clásico continues to move forward with purpose, and 2026 marked another huge step in that progression.
