In a historic shift, Charlotte has been selected to host the 2025 and 2026 Pop Warner National Championships, marking the first time since 1995 that the youth sports event will not be held in Orlando, Florida. The Pop Warner Little Scholars, a leading national organization for youth football, cheer, and dance, made the official announcement, bringing excitement to Queen City.
The upcoming championships, which include both football and cheerleading competitions, are set to generate significant economic and social impact across the region. Scheduled events include the Pop Warner Super Bowl from December 6 to 13, 2025, at the Mecklenburg County Sportsplex in Matthews, and the Pop Warner Cheer & Dance Nationals from December 8 to 11, 2025, at the expansive Charlotte Convention Center.
Economic Opportunity for Local Businesses
The announcement has sparked enthusiasm from Charlotte’s business community. Hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues are preparing for a surge in visitors, as thousands of athletes, families, and spectators are expected to attend. Local officials estimate that the championship will generate millions of dollars in economic activity for the city over the week-long period.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for Charlotte,” said Leigh Altman, a Mecklenburg County Commissioner. “We’re thrilled to welcome these young athletes and their families. This event will not only showcase our world-class facilities but also support our local economy by creating jobs and boosting tourism.”
Local business owners have already started strategizing to meet the increased demand. Terrance Green, who owns a café near the convention center, expressed optimism about the event’s potential impact. “We’re ready to serve the visitors coming in,” he said. “An event of this magnitude can uplift small businesses like ours.”
World-Class Facilities and Infrastructure
Charlotte’s selection as the new host city is largely attributed to its state-of-the-art sports infrastructure. The Mecklenburg County Sportsplex, renowned for its top-tier amenities, offers 12 multi-use fields, ample spectator seating, and locker rooms designed for large-scale tournaments. Meanwhile, the Charlotte Convention Center, with its modern 600,000-square-foot layout, will provide a dynamic venue for the cheerleading and dance competitions.
“Charlotte has all the ingredients for a successful championship,” said Jon Butler, CEO of Pop Warner Little Scholars. “Our goal is to create an unforgettable experience for these young athletes, and we believe the city’s facilities and hospitality will exceed expectations.”
City officials have also emphasized their commitment to ensuring a smooth and secure experience for all attendees. Plans include enhanced transportation services, security measures, and community engagement initiatives to facilitate the event’s logistics.
A Community Celebration of Youth Sports
The championships promise to be more than just a competition—they will serve as a celebration of youth achievement and sportsmanship. In addition to the games and performances, organizers are planning interactive fan experiences, such as sports clinics, meet-and-greets with former Pop Warner athletes, and family-friendly activities.
Local youth sports organizations see the event as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes. “Having the Pop Warner Championships in our city is a dream come true for young players,” said Michelle Parker, a youth football coach in Charlotte. “It shows them that with hard work and determination, they can achieve great things.”
The championships also provide an opportunity for community involvement. High school and college students are being encouraged to volunteer, assisting with event coordination and athlete support.
Building Momentum for Future Events
City leaders are hopeful that the success of the Pop Warner National Championships will lead to additional large-scale events in the future. With Charlotte already established as a sports hub—home to the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Hornets, and Charlotte FC—there is optimism that the championships will further enhance the city’s reputation.
“This is a milestone for our city’s sports tourism industry,” said Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles. “We’re proud to welcome Pop Warner and demonstrate that Charlotte is a premier destination for major events. We believe this partnership will open the door to more opportunities in the years to come.”
Community Engagement and Awareness
To ensure residents are informed and prepared, event organizers and the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) have scheduled a series of town hall meetings and pop-up information sessions. These gatherings will provide updates on transportation plans, traffic management, and volunteer opportunities.
The first town hall meeting is set for February 5 at Cornelius Town Hall, followed by additional sessions in Huntersville and Davidson. Pop-up meetings will take place at transit hubs and other key locations, offering residents a chance to ask questions and provide feedback.
Excitement Builds as Preparations Continue
As the event draws closer, excitement is building across the Charlotte region. Residents, sports fans, and local businesses are eager to welcome the influx of visitors and showcase the city’s hospitality.
“This is a huge win for our community,” said David Reyes, a longtime Charlotte resident and youth sports enthusiast. “We’re ready to roll out the red carpet and make this a memorable experience for everyone involved.”
With final preparations underway, Charlotte is poised to deliver an unforgettable championship season. From the roar of the crowd at the Sportsplex to the cheers echoing through the convention center, the city is ready to embrace the spirit of youth sports and celebrate the achievements of the nation’s best young athletes.
