More than 3,500 people are expected to be at the 2016 Ozarks Coca-Cola/Dr Pepper Cup at Lake Country Soccer when nearly 190 teams will compete April 22-24, a huge increase over the previous year.

“It’s a big one, “ said John Markey, executive director at Lake Country Soccer. “We’re 60 teams over where we were last year.”

A history of good tournaments and more advertising this year contributed to the growth, said Markey, who noted teams had to be turned away because there isn’t enough space for all those that applied.

The tournaments are free for spectators. Hours are 6-9 p.m. April 22, 8 a.m.-9 p.m. April 23 and 8 a.m.-4 p.m. April 2.

Lake Country Soccer is the largest soccer complex in southwest Missouri serving youth and adult soccer leagues. Lake Country Soccer has grown into a 55+-acre facility with 20 outdoor fields (seven of which are lighted) and an indoor facility (two fields) serving close to 2,800 registered youth players and nearly 120,000 facility visits annually by players, coaches and fans.

The ages that will be represented at the tournament are Girls U9 - U14 and Boys U9 - U19. The teams will compete in various brackets based on their competitive skill level.

Ozarks Coca-Cola/Dr Pepper Bottling Company is the presenting sponsor of the tournament.

For more information, call Lake Country Soccer at 417-862-3211 and visit www.lakecountrysoccer.org and www.facebook.com/LakeCountrySoccer.org.

Lake Country Soccer works closely with the Springfield Sports Commission and Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau, nonprofit organizations dedicated to boosting the local economy through growth in travel and tourism. Learn more by calling 417-881-5300 or visit www.SpringfieldMOSports.org and www.SpringfieldMO.org.