MARBLEHEAD — Soccer fans from across the North Shore are invited to gather for a Community FIFA World Cup Final watch party this Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at The Rip Tide Lounge (116 Pleasant St. in Marblehead).

Hosted by Marblehead Football Club (MHD FC), the event is open to the public with a suggested $10 donation at the door. Event proceeds will benefit the club’s non-profit mission: growing the game and expanding access to youth soccer opportunities throughout Massachusetts’ Greater North Shore. 

As part of the event, MHD FC has organized a youth soccer gear drive. Guests are encouraged to donate gently-used soccer equipment, including cleats, shin guards, soccer balls, goalkeeper gloves, and uniforms. This much-needed equipment will help more young athletes participate in Lynn Youth Soccer, a community-based organization offering both competitive and recreational soccer programs to local children. 

“We are incredibly grateful to Marblehead Football Club and The Rip Tide Lounge for turning the excitement of the World Cup into an opportunity to support young players in our community,” said Steve Johnston, President of Lynn Youth Soccer. “Every piece of equipment helps ensure more children have the opportunity to experience the game we all love, regardless of their family’s financial circumstances.” 

Founded in January, as a non-profit, Marblehead Football Club is dedicated to expanding access to soccer throughout the Greater North Shore of Massachusetts. Through scholarships, equipment donations, partnerships with local youth soccer organizations, and community fundraising, MHD FC works to eliminate financial barriers and create opportunities for more young people to experience the sport. 

“The Rip Tide Lounge has always been about bringing people together, and there’s no better occasion than the FIFA World Cup Final when we can support young athletes,” said John Kaetzer, owner of The Rip Tide Lounge. “We’re proud to partner with Marblehead Football Club on an event that celebrates soccer while giving back to local youth, and we look forward to welcoming fans from across the North Shore.”

“The FIFA World Cup is one of the few events that brings people from every corner of the globe together through a shared love of the game,” said Al Wilson, President of Marblehead Football Club. “We’re excited to celebrate the final with our community, while supporting the next generation of players. We hope soccer fans, families, and friends from across the North Shore will join us for what promises to be a memorable afternoon.” 

Attendees will also have the opportunity to learn more about Marblehead Football Club, its community initiatives, and ways to get involved. 

For more information, visit www.MHDFC.org or follow Marblehead Football Club on social media. 

What: Community FIFA World Cup Final watch party and youth soccer gear drive

When: Sunday, July 19 (doors open at 2:30 p.m.)

Where: The Rip Tide Lounge (116 Pleasant St. in Marblehead)

Admission: Suggested $10 donation at the door 

Donate: Gently-used soccer gear for Lynn Youth Soccer