USL Eugene Partners with Emerald Kidsports to Bring Professional Soccer to Civic Park
United Soccer League Eugene has signed an agreement with Emerald Kidsports to lease the Civic Park Grandstand and Market of Choice Field. This agreement ensures that Kidsports will have priority access to Civic Park for its programs and community partners. The collaboration aims to support the community and introduce a professional sports team to Eugene.
USL Eugene was recently awarded a franchise by the USL and will launch a professional men's team in USL League One in the 2026 season, with plans for a women's team in the future. Season ticket deposits are now available for fans to secure priority access to tickets for the inaugural season of the club.
Civic Park, built on the site of the historic Civic Stadium, has been a significant project supported by various donors, volunteers, and partners. The completion of the Civic Park grandstand in March 2025 marked the final phase of the project, transforming Civic Stadium into a vibrant community space.
Since June 2020, Civic Park has been a hub of activity, hosting thousands of visitors and providing active programming for families. With the addition of a professional soccer team in March 2026, Civic Park will further engage the community and offer a venue for sports enthusiasts of all ages.
Bev Smith, executive director of Kidsports and Eugene Civic Alliance, worked closely with Sat Dhinsa, chairman of USL Eugene, to finalize the lease agreement. Dhinsa, a passionate advocate for youth soccer, is excited about the opportunity to create a community-focused venue that also supports professional soccer.
The collaboration between USL Eugene and Emerald Kidsports represents a unique blend of community engagement and professional sports. The partnership aims to bring new opportunities for young players, showcase the impact of sports in the community, and create a vibrant space for residents to enjoy sports and other activities.
In conclusion, the agreement between USL Eugene and Emerald Kidsports marks a significant milestone in bringing professional soccer to Eugene while maintaining a strong focus on community engagement. The collaboration between these two institutions highlights the importance of sports in fostering community spirit and providing opportunities for youth development.