Contributed by
AO Tourism
Auburn Thunder Soccer Club will host the Auburn Thunder Classic Nov. 13-15 at the Wire Road Soccer Complex in Auburn and the W. James Samford Soccer Complex in Opelika.
The tournament will feature over 1,300 players representing three states, with more than half of the players coming from outside of Alabama. Alabama players will represent cities across the state including Huntsville, Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Fairhope and Mobile.
“We are excited to welcome athletes and their families from across the Southeast to visit Auburn and Opelika. This tournament gives us the chance to showcase our charming town and community. Many of our friends, neighbors, and local business have suffered greatly due to the pandemic. Auburn Thunder hopes to make a huge economic impact on our community by hosting tournaments like this one throughout the year,” said Toby Hammer, Auburn Thunder Board President.
Out-of-town guests staying in area hotels, eating at area restaurants and shopping at local retailers will mean a significant increase in area revenue throughout the duration of the tournament. Anthony Terling, Auburn-Opelika Tourism’s sports and event development manager, predicts that the estimated economic impact from the tournament will exceed $500,000, including more than $100,000 in estimated local sales taxes.
“Competitive Soccer continues to grow in popularity with young athletes across the country, and we look forward to working with our partners on the Auburn Thunder Classic tournament to foster the growth of the sport and its economic benefits to our community,” said Terling.
The Saturday and Sunday schedule will begin with first games at 8 a.m. for all age groups. Local vendors will serve a variety of food at both complexes throughout the weekend, and a local radio station will be broadcasting live from the fields. Everyone is invited to join the fun and support our local community.