Visitor's Guide to Springfield Illinois
Aydin Gonulsen Memorial Tournament
The Aydin Gonulsen Memorial Cup – Presented by SASA
Hosted at the brand-new Scheels Sports Park
MARCH 27th - MARCH 29th, 2026 (Local teams might play Friday)
This spring, the Springfield Area Soccer Association (SASA) proudly welcomes teams, families, and fans to the Aydin Gonulsen Memorial Cup — a celebration of soccer, community, and legacy at the all-new Scheels Sports Park in Springfield, Illinois.
Honoring a Springfield Soccer Legend
Aydin Gonulsen (1943–2021), former Athletic Director and Soccer Coach at Sangamon State University (now UIS), was a visionary leader whose passion for the game helped shape soccer in Springfield and beyond. His enthusiasm, integrity, and relentless dedication built a nationally recognized collegiate program and inspired generations of players, coaches, and fans.
Aydin put Springfield and SSU on the national soccer map, attracting talented players from across the country and around the world. Many of those athletes chose to make Springfield their home — becoming youth coaches, mentors, and community leaders who continue to grow the game locally. His influence lives on through SASA, area schools, and the countless players whose lives he touched.
A New Era for Soccer in Springfield
This year’s tournament marks an exciting milestone as it debuts at the Scheels Sports Park at Legacy Pointe — a state-of-the-art, multi-sport complex designed to elevate the player and fan experience. Featuring pristine turf fields, modern amenities, and convenient access to hotels, restaurants, and shopping, the facility represents the future of youth sports in Central Illinois.
We’re thrilled to welcome visiting teams to experience this incredible venue and our vibrant Springfield community.
A Weekend of Competition, Camaraderie & Celebration
The Aydin Gonulsen Memorial Cup honors the spirit of soccer, sportsmanship, and community that Aydin embodied. Join us for a weekend of competitive play, lasting friendships, and heartfelt remembrance as we celebrate the man who built the foundation of Springfield’s soccer legacy.
Welcome to Springfield. Welcome to the new home of soccer. Welcome to the Aydin Gonulsen Memorial Cup.
DEADLINE TO REGISTER MARCH 13TH, 2026
0Days
REGISTRATION OPEN
Ed Rose
Director of Coaching/Tournament Director
Phone: 217-761-8743
TOURNAMENT DETAILS:
U7-U15 Boys and Girls & U16-U19 Boys Only
Application Deadline is March 13th
- Scheels Sports Park Facility - All Turf
-Finals in all brackets (except for 5 team brackets)
-Free Parking,
-Multiple flights Elite (top) Classic (bottom)
-Experienced Referees
- Tournament Fees:
U8 B & G 7v7 - $700
U9-U10 B & G 7v7 - $700
U11 - U12 B & G 9v9 - $795
U13 - U15 B & G 11v11 - $845
U16- U19 Boys 11v11 - $895
If mailing in payment, please send it to the below address.
SASA
P.O. Box 904
Springfield IL, 62705
** Credit Card option now available
SCHEELS SPORTS PARK:
The largest air Supported Sports dome in the world!
Spanning an incredible 196,625 square feet, our indoor dome is the largest of its kind in the world, offering a climate-controlled environment that ensures year-round play and competition.
Premier Turf Fields and Championship Venues
Beyond the dome, SCHEELS Sports Park features an impressive outdoor complex, offering elite-level playing fields and event spaces for various sports and gatherings. Our outdoor amenities include:
- Eight multipurpose, lighted turf fields
- Two championship fields – Equipped with stadium seating and video boards, these fields create a professional atmosphere for high-stakes games and championship matchups.
- The Yard – A 27,000-square-foot event space – Designed for community gatherings, concerts, fan experiences, and special events, The Yard serves as a dynamic hub for entertainment and social engagement.
TOURNAMENT FORMS
REQUIRED PAPERWORK AND FORMS FOR AGM
Click Here
HOTELS:
We have partnered with TRAVELING TEAMSTM to secure discounted room blocks at a variety of tournament approved hotels near our venue. This is a Stay to Play event. In order to participate, all out of town teams are required to book all hotel rooms through TRAVELING TEAMSTM.
Click HERE to choose your hotel. Do not book your hotel through any other travel agent and do not contact the hotel directly. Thank you in advance for your cooperation!
CLICK FOR HOTELS
VISITING SPRINGFIELD:
Local attractions including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library/Museum, Abraham Lincoln sites, White Oaks Mall. Great central location in Springfield, Illinois. Couple of hours from the Chicago and St. Louis areas. Great hotel options to suit every team budget and taste
Great Restaurants throughout the city, don’t forget to try our specialty “ Horseshoes” Convenient location- games will be played in one facility
