Soccer in the Sand
Soccer in the Sand is a series of beach soccer tournaments held at various beach locations in the United States. Founded in 2006 by Chris Lemay, the series emphasizes growing participation in beach soccer while supporting local communities through donations and partnerships with youth soccer clubs.
Tournaments typically feature small-sided games, age- and gender-based divisions, skills clinics, and family-friendly beach activities. The series has donated over $280,000 to local organizations and hosted free clinics for thousands of participants.
History
The series began in 2006 under founder Chris Lemay, who established Soccer in the Sand to promote beach soccer as an alternative to traditional grass-field play.Locations
Tournaments are held at beach venues across multiple states, with events scheduled from spring through summer. As of 2026, confirmed locations include:- Coronado, California
- Seaside, Oregon
- Grand Haven, Michigan
- Michigan City, Indiana
- Detroit, Michigan
- Chicago, Illinois
- Muskegon, Michigan
Format
Tournaments are one- or two-day events with teams of up to 11 players, divided by age and gender. Females may play in male divisions, but males are restricted to male divisions.Games are typically 5v5, though some variations exist. Two-day events feature three 11-minute periods with short breaks; one-day events use two 12-minute halves. Points are awarded as 3 for a win, 1 for a tie, and 0 for a loss, with tiebreakers including head-to-head results, goal differential, or shootouts.
Kickoffs are determined by coin toss or rock-paper-scissors. Each team is guaranteed at least three games in pool play, followed by playoffs for top teams.
Many events include free skills clinics on the preceding Friday and community giveback initiatives.