Olympia-Lacey Fan Zone helps grow game of soccer in Thurston County

The Thurston County Chamber of Commerce organized a community fan zone experience where spectators can gather to watch select 2026 FIFA World Cup matches.

On the first day of the Olympia-Lacey Fan Zone,  over 2,800 spectators showed up to watch Team USA beat Australia 2-0 in a group stage match.

The fan zone experience was a hit with people young and old.

“These events have been full of people of every age and all they're going to do is realize what a great sport soccer is, what an exciting sport soccer is; especially the young people. I think they want to play soccer, so I think it’s great,” said  spectator Mark Brown.

The fan zone is even introducing new fans to the game of soccer.

“I’m not really a soccer fan, but I came in here, popped in because I was downtown and I just got involved in the atmosphere. I loved the competitiveness of the game itself, so yeah I’m a fan now and I wasn't a fan before,” said Nelson Johnson, who was at the second fan zone event that featured a match between Swiztzerland and Canada on Wednesday, June 24.

Popularity

Soccer is popular among the younger generation right now. According to data from YouGov, “56% of  avid soccer watchers in the U.S. are aged 18 to 34.” Furthermore, research shows that 10% of Americans call soccer their favorite sport, making it slightly more popular than baseball.

“This will now drive more youth and more kids into the game because they see the bright lights, they see the big players, they see the huge fan zones and I think it will inspire more kids to play here in the United States and grow the game even more,” said Ryan Perkins, President of FC Olympia, a local nonprofit soccer club that provides a path for players to pro soccer.

The growth of soccer in this country also boils down to the success of its national teams in major tournaments.

For example, the United States Women's National Team has won four FIFA World Cup titles. Their success in international tournaments has inspired young girls across the country to start playing soccer. More than 390,000 girls played high school soccer in the U.S.

Americans are also coming together to show their support for the United States Men’s National Team. Both of their World Cup matches so far were played in front of sold out stadiums.

Across the country, spectators go to bars or outdoor fan zones to view the matches. Fans also discuss the games on social media platforms, all of which brings more attention to the sport.

Port Plaza schedule

Thursday, June 25, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. USA vs Türkiye match starts at 7 p.m. 

Friday, June 26, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Pride Celebration Night) Spain vs Uruguay match starts at 5 p.m. Egypt vs Iran match starts at 8 p.m. 

Get tickets here.