Albuquerque is being invaded next week! But, no need to worry - we're being invaded by international soccer superstars, who will be in town to play in the first-ever International Legends Cup event, which will be held on Saturday, September 13, at University of New Mexico's University Stadium. The game will cap off an entire week of exciting events that organizers have put together to build momentum leading up to game day.
On Sunday, September 7, soccer star Roy Lassiter will host a soccer clinic for kids at Bullhead Park. The event is free, but pre-registration is required. Following the clinic, New Mexico's largest ball drop will feature one thousand ping pong balls being dropped from a hot air balloon at the park. The best part: each ball is a winner, with prizes ranging from game/concert ticket discounts to local restaurant discounts and even a couple of brand-new mattresses.
Because even international soccer superstars need to eat, there are several meals planned throughout the week. On Tuesday, September 9 and Wednesday, September 10, breakfast events at local IHOP and Flying Star Café locations will allow members of the public to meet soccer celebrities in person. The evening of Thursday, September 11, a VIP Banquet, featuring a legendary player at each table, will take place at Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid North. Individual tickets and tables for this event can be purchased at www.internationallegendscup.com.
Aside from these events, there are several other ways you can celebrate with players (including Carlos Valderrama and his famous hair) during the week. For a comprehensive list of the week's events, including players and where they will be throughout the week, visit the event website. Site navigation is available in both English and Spanish.
On game day, things really start rocking! From noon to 4:00 p.m., just outside University Stadium, soccer fans can explore Soccer Village, featuring booths from several local companies. The game will kick off promptly at 4:00 p.m. Following the excitement of the game, ticketholders will be treated to a free concert featuring two incredible bands - Pesado and Trakalosa de Monterrey.
Tickets for Saturday's game and concert start at $30, and can be purchased at www.internationallegendscup.com, UNM's Pit Box Office or at any Albertson's store.
