KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Due to the changing conditions surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and for the safety of members, partners, presenters, exhibitors and colleagues, United Soccer Coaches announced Thursday its annual convention scheduled for Jan. 6-10, 2021 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, Calif. will become an interactive digital event.
“While the loss of an in-person event is disappointing, we are excited to deliver our Convention in this new interactive digital format for 2021,” United Soccer Coaches CEO Lynn-Berling Manuel said in a statement. “This continues as a remarkable opportunity to unite coaches and the larger soccer community across the country and around the world. Now it’s from the convenience of their own homes and will still foster a real sense of personal connection in these uncertain times.”
The annual convention is the ultimate event for coaches of all levels, unparalleled in its opportunity for education, networking, advocacy, and recognition. All of those opportunities are expected to be delivered in an interactive digital form.
Over the course of the week, attendees will be able to choose from a wide daily schedule of lecture, field and roundtable sessions just like they would at an in-person convention. Sessions will be accompanied by interactive features allowing for conversation between peers and the session presenters.
Attendees also will be able to foster connections with fellow coaches through digital networking events, awards ceremonies, wellness breaks and hallway conversations, according to a United Soccer Coaches press release.
“During this time of unprecedented interruption in our lives, we can always find comfort in the soccer community we are tied to.” United Soccer Coaches president Kevin Sims said. “With change comes the opportunity to create, and the association is well-equipped and committed to create an unmatched digital experience to deliver to its 2021 Convention attendees.”
More details on the digital convention will be unveiled soon including the digital exhibit hall, Career Fair, awards, Advocacy Hour, receptions, socials and presenters from across the game.
