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Blind Soccer International Tournament
Saturday, May 23rd & Sunday, May 24th
Interbay Stadium | Ballard WA
3027 17th Ave W, Seattle, WA 98119
Register to participate in Community Demonstrations. Spectators do not need to register.
Overview
The Blind Soccer International Tournament at Interbay Stadium brings together the U.S., Kazakhstan, and Peru national teams for a first-of-its-kind international competition in the Pacific Northwest. Hosted by SeattleFWC26 in partnership with the U.S. Association of Blind Athletes and Ballard FC / Salmon Bay FC, the event combines elite match play with community engagement and education. Designed to elevate visibility, expand access, and build long-term momentum for adaptive sport, the tournament positions Seattle as a growing hub for Blind Soccer while advancing accessibility as a core part of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ legacy.
The competition schedule includes:
Saturday, May 23
11:00 AM PT: USA vs. Peru
1:45 PM PT: Kazakhstan vs. Peru
3:00–4:30 PM PT: Fan Engagement & Community Activation
Sunday, May 24
11:00 AM PT: USA vs. Kazakhstan
12:30 PM PT: Awards Ceremony and Photo Opportunities
What is blind soccer
Played by five-a-side teams with four field players and one goalkeeper. The pitch is 130’ × 65’ with kick-boards along the sidelines to prevent the ball from going out of play. Field players wear eye patches and eyeshades; the goalkeeper may be sighted or partially sighted (B2/B3). The ball contains bells so players track it by sound. Coaches, guides and goalkeepers provide verbal to assist in strategy and positioning. Matches are two 20-minute halves; there’s no offside, and corner kicks are used.
Who should attend
- Soccer fans and sports enthusiasts
- Adaptive athletes and aspiring players
- Coaches, trainers, and sports organizations
- Disability advocates and accessibility leaders
- Educators, students, and youth groups
- Community organizations and nonprofits
- Corporate partners and civic leaders interested in inclusion and legacy work
What you will Learn
- How Blind Soccer is played, including rules, communication, and athlete navigation
- How global events like FIFA World Cup 2026™ can drive lasting local impact
- Ways to get involved in expanding adaptive sports and accessibility in your community
Interbay Stadium offers step-free access, accessible restrooms, clear sound cues, and safe field boundaries. Service animals are welcome.
Registration
This weekend is designed for anyone interested in the future of sport, access, and inclusion—on and off the pitch. Whether you’re stepping onto the field or into the stands, this is an opportunity to engage, learn, and be part of a growing movement shaping the future of inclusive sport.
FAqs
Yes—free and RSVP required due to limited capacity.
No. It’s beginner-friendly and valuable for experienced players/coaches, too.
Yes. Sighted goalkeepers, guides, coaches, officials, and supporters are encouraged. Some drills simulate low-vision play to teach communication and orientation.
Athletic shoes (no metal studs), comfortable sportswear, and a water bottle. We’ll provide eye shades and audible balls.
Blind Soccer uses a bell ball, kick-boards on the sidelines, five-a-side teams, and two 20-minute halves; outfield players wear eye patches and eyeshades. There’s no offside, and corner kicks are in play. Goalkeepers can be sighted or partially sighted (B2/B3). usaba.org
Yes—safety, positioning, rules, communication, training progressions, and pathways to certification/continued learning.
Yes. Tell us any guidance you’d like our team/volunteers to follow.
Yes—ASL with advance notice (request on the form).
You’ll get a confirmation email after registering and an update with any final logistics before the event.
Yes, for more details email info@seattlefwc26.org.
We’ll share updates on Seattle’s Blind Soccer hub, future clinics, coaching/officiating trainings, and the planned international friendly window May 22–May 25, 2026 (opponent/venue TBD).
Email info@seattlefwc26.org.