An after-school matchday experience that connects players, families, and the local soccer community to the USL game through on-field activities, player interaction, and a live pro soccer match.
Events begin at 4:30pm and lead into a Rough Riders USL game. Participants get an exclusive 2026 community jersey, pre-game access before entering the stadium together to watch the match. Clinics, coaching masterclasses, tournaments, and play-with-the-pros moments connect families directly with USL 2 and USL W coaches and players—creating a clear pathway from youth soccer to the pro game.
Starts 4:30pm: The LIRR USL World Cup is a high-energy, matchday tournament experience designed to immerse young players in a fun, competitive, and unforgettable soccer environment. Players will be placed onto “World Cup” teams, creating a sense of team identity, competition, and excitement as they compete in a fast-paced tournament leading directly into a live USL match.
The event begins with a round-robin tournament featuring small-sided games (4v4 or 6v6, depending on registrations), ensuring plenty of touches, goals, and game action for every player. Teams will then advance into finals and placement matches, followed by awards and recognition for standout performances.
Throughout the tournament, USL players will serve as referees and mentors, helping guide the games, encourage players, and add an authentic professional matchday atmosphere. The evening concludes with a group walk into the stadium, where families and players will transition together to their seats for the USL kickoff.
Finishing at 6:30pm: To cap off the experience, the winning team will be recognized on the field at halftime, giving players a true “pro matchday” moment they’ll never forget.
Starts 4:30pm: The LIRR USL “Play With The Pros” Experience is an action-packed, interactive event designed to give young players a once-in-a-year opportunity to step onto the field alongside real USL professionals. This high-energy pregame experience builds excitement, confidence, and unforgettable memories while creating a strong connection between youth players and the pro match atmosphere.
Players will rotate through a series of fast-paced skill stations led by USL players, including small-sided games, shooting challenges, 1v1 competitions, and goalkeeper-specific activities. Each station is designed to develop creativity and have fun while allowing players to learn directly from the pros in an engaging and supportive environment.
After the station rotations, all participants come together for a large mixed scrimmage featuring both youth players and USL athletes on the field at the same time. This shared game experience is the highlight of the evening, giving players the thrill of competing alongside the very athletes they’ll soon watch under the stadium lights.
Finishing at 6:30pm: Following the on-field session, the group will take part in a special tunnel walk into the stadium, creating a true matchday moment as families and players head to their seats together in anticipation of kickoff.
Starting at 4:30pm: The LIRR USL Coaching Masterclass is an engaging, behind-the-scenes event designed for parents, coaches, and older players who want a deeper understanding of the professional development pathway.
This educational matchday experience offers rare access to USL Head Coaches, providing insight into training standards, player progression, and what it truly takes to reach the next level.
The evening begins with an open player Q&A session, where attendees can hear directly from USL athletes about their journeys, daily habits, challenges, and advice for aspiring players. Following the discussion, there will be time for autographs and photos, giving families and players a chance to connect personally with the pros.
Next, USL Head Coaches will lead a coaching masterclass focused on player development, pathway opportunities, and the standards expected at higher levels of the game. At the same time, attendees will be able to observe a live USL training demonstration on the field, offering a real-time look at how professional environments are structured, coached, and executed.
Finishing at 6:30pm: The experience concludes with participants heading to the stadium and transitioning to their seats, allowing everyone to carry that behind-the-scenes perspective into the match itself. This unique event bridges the gap between youth soccer and the professional game, delivering valuable education, inspiration, and access that extends far beyond the final whistle.
Send us an email at info@liroughriders.com or call 516-622-3900.