Palm Springs, California - February 8 & 9, 2025
Kick Off Your Soccer Career: Join the SMWW Meet & Greet at the Coachella Valley Invitational
Are you ready to immerse yourself in the heart of the soccer world while enjoying sunny California? The SMWW Meet & Greet at the 2025 Coachella Valley Invitational is your chance to network with top soccer professionals, learn from industry leaders, and witness Major League Soccer (MLS) preseason action up close.
This is more than just an event—it’s your opportunity to advance your soccer career and connect with the brightest minds in the game.
What Makes This Event Unmissable?
1. Network with Soccer’s Elite
At the SMWW Meet & Greet, you’ll rub shoulders with agents, scouts, coaches, executives, and players from across the soccer industry, including:
- SMWW President Dr. Lynn Lashbrook
- FIFA Agent Maikel Tsuji
- Real Salt Lake Scout Matt Martin
- LA Galaxy Sr. Director of Player Personnel Gordon Kljestan
- Chicago Fire Head of Strategy Eddie Rock
- LAFC Scouts Robert Vidrio and Joey Yusunas
…and many more. (Guest list subject to change based on team schedules.)
Whether you’re aspiring to work in scouting, analytics, coaching, or player representation, this is your chance to connect with the people who can help make it happen.
2. Watch 12 MLS Teams in Action
The Coachella Valley Invitational is the largest MLS preseason site, featuring 14 MLS teams preparing for the upcoming season. On February 8-9, you’ll see top players and rising stars as teams finalize their rosters for 2025.
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Saturday, February 8 Highlights:
- 11 AM: Austin FC vs. Sporting Kansas City
- 12 PM: San Diego FC vs. New York City FC
- 1:30 PM: San Jose Earthquakes vs. New York Red Bulls
- 2:30 PM: Portland Timbers vs. Chicago Fire FC
- 4:00 PM: SMWW Meet & Greet at the Tack Room Tavern
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Sunday, February 9 Highlights:
- 10 AM: LA Galaxy vs. Charlotte FC
- 11:30 AM: Minnesota United FC vs. St. Louis City SC
Get day passes to watch multiple games from fieldside views—purchase your game tickets here!
Who Should Attend?
- Aspiring Soccer Professionals: Want to break into the business side of soccer? Learn what it takes from the pros.
- Current Soccer Professionals: Build your network and stay ahead of industry trends.
- College Students & Graduates: If you dream of a soccer career, this event will connect you with decision-makers.
- Soccer Fans & Enthusiasts: Love the game? Get an insider’s view of preseason action and connect with the game’s influencers.
Why the Coachella Valley?
Perfect Setting
With 75-degree sunny weather and the beauty of the Coachella Valley, this event offers the perfect mix of soccer and scenic relaxation. Located in Indio, California, the Empire Polo Club is easily accessible—just 25 miles from Palm Springs, California Airport.
Affordable and Convenient
Inexpensive airfare and lodging make this an easy trip for anyone. Stay in one of the nearby cities, including Palm Springs, La Quinta, or Indio, and enjoy a weekend of soccer excitement.
What to Expect at the SMWW Meet & Greet
- Date: Saturday, February 8, 2025
- Time: 4:00–6:00 PM
- Location: Tack Room Tavern, adjacent to the soccer fields at the Empire Polo Grounds
Join us for appetizers, drinks, and exclusive networking opportunities. Walk straight from the field to the Tavern and mingle with some of the most influential figures in soccer.
Why This Event Matters
The Coachella Valley Invitational is more than a preseason tournament—it’s a launchpad for soccer careers. This is the last chance for MLS teams to finalize their rosters, and you’ll get to see the top players and emerging talent as they fight for their spots. For fans and professionals alike, this event is a rare chance to see elite competition and connect with industry leaders in one place.
Ready to Kickstart Your Soccer Career?
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to advance your career, grow your network, and experience world-class soccer in one of the most beautiful settings in the world.
Spaces are limited—secure your spot today and take the next step toward your dream career in soccer.
Let’s make your soccer ambitions a reality at the 2025 Coachella Valley Invitational!
"The Coachella Valley Invitational has become a premier preseason event in global soccer, thanks to AEG’s expertise in producing world-class events. With state-of-the-art facilities, professional organization, and a unique environment, Coachella provides MLS clubs with a terrific opportunity to prepare for the 2025 upcoming season. " -MLS Commissioner Don Garber
Information:
- Meet & Greet with snacks and drinks after the February 8th games with SMWW Faculty Dr. Lashbrook, Liz Lashbrook, Matt Martin, Maikel Tsuji, Gordon Kljestan, and many more!
Where to stay?
Look for Airbnbs and hotels in Indio, California
What airport should I fly in to?
- Palm Springs International (PSP) 23 miles to Empire Polo Grounds in Indio, California
- Ontario, California (ONT) 91 miles to Empire Polo Grounds in Indio, California
- San Diego, California (SAN) 134 miles to Empire Polo Grounds in Indio, California
- Los Angeles International, California (LAX) 145 miles to Empire Polo Grounds in Indio, California
