Cary Chosen as Long-Term Host for NCAA National Championships in Division I Soccer and Division II Baseball

The Town of Cary, along with its host partners, is excited to announce an expanded partnership with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), securing Cary as a host site for another decade of National Championships for Division II Baseball and four more years of Division I Women’s and Men’s Soccer College Cups. This extension builds on the recent award of six championships for the 2026-2028 seasons and will keep Cary as a pivotal NCAA host through 2038.


Cary’s relationship with the NCAA is strengthened through partnerships with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of Mount Olive, which serve as the official host institutions for Women’s and Men’s College Cups and Division II Baseball, respectively.


“A tremendous amount of dedication goes into making these events successful,” said John Collins, Cary’s Director of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources. “This recognition underscores the quality of our facilities, the commitment of our staff, and the support of our outstanding partners.”


In October, the NCAA announced that WakeMed Soccer Park would continue hosting the Women’s and Men’s Division I Soccer College Cups in 2026 and 2027, increasing the total number of NCAA soccer champions to be crowned in Cary to 23. This most recent announcement also adds the 2028 College Cups to the slate of Cary-hosted soccer championships, with further discussions on future years already underway. Home to professional teams the NC Courage and North Carolina FC, WakeMed Soccer Park hosts a range of diverse events, from local festivals to international tournaments, including The Soccer Tournament (TST), recently recognized by Sports Destination Management as one of 2024’s “Champions of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism” alongside the Town itself as a host.


Also in October, the USA Baseball National Training Complex was selected to host the Division II Baseball World Series for the 15th and 16th times since 2009. The complex, recently renovated with an $11 million investment, now houses USA Baseball’s executive offices and a new indoor training center. Recognized by SportsTravel magazine as a top finalist for “Best New or Renovated Venue” in 2024, this facility continues to set the standard for championship baseball.


“Since 2003, Cary has proudly hosted NCAA championships across a wide variety of sports, including soccer, lacrosse, cross country, baseball, and tennis,” said Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. “It is both exciting and meaningful to share this milestone announcement alongside our esteemed partners. We take immense pride in providing athletes, their families, and our citizens with unforgettable experiences across our sports venues.”


With this extension, Cary’s portfolio of hosted events now exceeds 124 college championships, including 41 NCAA and 83 ACC titles. Through 2023, sports tourism in Cary has drawn over 10.5 million visitors, contributing nearly $300 million to the local economy.


“In the sports event industry, Cary’s brand is immaculate venues, exceptional hospitality, and attention to every detail, and the NCAA knows that better than anyone,” said Scott Dupree, Executive Director of the Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance, which worked closely with Cary and the NCAA on the long-term agreement. “Cary’s dedication to creating memorable championship experiences for student-athletes, families, and fans is unsurpassed. This agreement reflects Cary’s proven commitment to excellence, and it also reflects the NCAA’s trust in Cary.”


Returning on back-to-back weekends this December at Cary’s WakeMed Soccer Park, the Women’s College Cup championship match will be held on Dec. 9. The Men’s College Cup follows, with semifinal matches on Dec. 13, and the championship on Dec. 16.


For additional information, visit carync.gov.