Stars, Stripes, and Soccer

The weather tried its best to rain on the parade of the first American Block Party hosted by and held at the Paradise Sports Complex on Friday, July 3. Serving an initial delay of the start time for safety, it wasn’t long before the gates opened for one extra fun red, white, and blue good time for all ages!

With the wide-open expanse, games, food, and patriotic-themed activities were spread evenly across the space.

The Fourth of July themed block party was an idea that came from a team. “It was a collaborative effort, like everything that we do here. It’s always a team. Someone sparks an idea and then we build on it,” said Mike Lieberman, Assistant General Manager of PSC. “With it being America’s 250th, we wanted to do our part. We wanted to make sure that in addition to all the other things that we have going on, that we also have something to celebrate this country.”

A unique scavenger hunt, available for pickup at the check-in table, gave the kids something different to set their focus on. Finding clues hidden throughout the party, they then had to check them off on their own ‘treasure map’. Once they found them all, they could select a prize!

Face painters, bounce houses, and water activities were also at the ready to keep kids engaged and make holiday memories.

Refreshments and food were provided from a few food trucks that the complex likes to partner with: “They are all very good partners. When we present them with an opportunity to come out, they not only want to be part of the event, but they are in front of the community, and they're very happy to do that.”

Paradise Sports Complex staff members and interns worked hard to keep the inaugural event a success, despite the initial dampening from the weather delay. Before long, the weather was a thing of the past as families kept piling through the gates to take part in the fun.

The event concluded as another event began: A large watch party on the lawn for the playoffs of the World Cup, round of 32, followed by the League Match of FC Naples vs. Portland.

The timing of the World Cup was perfect for the event, as Lieberman shared that they are referring to the event as ‘Stars, Strips, and Soccer’. “We kick off with an American 250th Celebration, get into the watch parties!”

The new General Manager, John Sullivan, was actively seen throughout the event and his happiness with his position was apparent. Echoing Lieberman’s descriptions of the watch parties, Sullivan elaborated on their VIP options available for some of the games, which consist of specialty dining, exclusive seating in a private area, and drink tickets for a private bar.

Paradise Sports Complex likes to run a variety of events throughout the year and encourage interested people to keep an eye on their website for details. During the FIFA World Cup, matches will be displayed on the Jumbotron.

“The goal for this event, like everything that we do here, is at its core: Let's make sure that we have fun!” Lieberman finished with a smile.