Ulster County to Host Inaugural ‘Future Stars Unity Cup’ on June 6
Published on May 28, 2026
Ulster County to Host Inaugural ‘Future Stars Unity Cup’ on June 6 at the Field of Dreams in New Paltz
KINGSTON, NY - One week before the World Cup soccer competition kicks off, Ulster County is proud to announce its own Ulster Future Stars Unity Cup, a youth soccer tournament and youth cultural fair taking place on June 6, from 11 AM to 7 PM at the Field of Dreams, 241 Libertyville Road in New Paltz (rain date June 7, same time). This free community event, co-hosted by the United Way of Ulster County, will celebrate youth athletics and cultural diversity. Youth players are encouraged to register in advance or on the day of the event at https://ulstercountyny.gov/FutureStarsCup.
The County is also pleased to announce that “One Life Only,” an initiative of Ulster County District Attorney Emmanuel Nneji, will serve as the title sponsor for the inaugural tournament. This partnership highlights a shared commitment to ensuring positive, supportive, and safe opportunities for local youth.
The Unity Cup represents a collaboration designed to build community pride, and uplift diverse cultural traditions. Alongside the fast‑paced soccer tournament, attendees will enjoy a fun youth cultural fair showcasing local heritage, food vendors, art, and family‑friendly activities. All funds raised through sponsorship contributions and community donations at the event itself will directly support United Way of Ulster County’s impact programs across the County.
“The Unity Cup is about family fun, healthy youth competition and play, and a celebration of the rich cultural diversity the game represents internationally and in our own communities," said Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger. “I want to thank all of our partners for helping make this event possible, and all of our sponsors for supporting the vital work of United Way of Ulster County. I look forward to seeing everyone at the Field of Dreams on June 6!”
"Through the 'One Life Only' initiative, our focus has always been on uplifting young people, promoting safety, and reminding our youth of the incredible value of their futures and that they only have one life, and that life spent in prison is no life at all," said County District Attorney Emmanuel Nneji. "Partnering with the Unity Cup as title sponsor allows us to put those values into action on a grand scale because prevention of crime is a priority. By supporting youth sports and the United Way of Ulster County, we are investing in and reinforcing a foundation of opportunity, mentorship, and community interest that keep our neighborhoods safe and strong."
"At United Way of Ulster County, we believe that building a stronger, more equitable community starts with investing in our youth and celebrating the diverse cultures that make our region so vibrant," said Stephanie Kearns, President and CEO of United Way of Ulster County. "The Ulster Future Stars Unity Cup does exactly that by beautifully merging the teamwork of youth sports with the rich heritage of our local community. We are incredibly proud to partner in this initiative at the Field of Dreams, as it provides a powerful space for families to connect, for young athletes to thrive, and for Ulster County to unite in a true spirit of inclusion and joy."
Behind the scenes, weeks of logistical and athletic planning are coming together to ensure a professional-tier environment for participants.
"Our goal is to deliver a fun tournament experience that matches the profound community mission behind it," said Jodi Council, Ulster Future Stars Unity Cup Tournament Director of Coaching. "We are coordinating, competitive, fun and a fast paced knock out tournament, so that these young athletes can focus entirely on teamwork, sportsmanship, and the joy of the game. It is going to be an unforgettable day for local soccer.”
The youth cultural fair will run throughout the day, offering opportunities to explore community heritage projects, enjoy local foods, and participate in interactive family activities.
About Our Community Sponsorship Partners
The Ulster Future Stars Unity Cup is made possible by generous support from community partners whose investments are directly enhancing the event and bolstering the United Way of Ulster County:
- "One Life Only" (Title Sponsor): An initiative of County District Attorney Emmanuel Nneji focused on youth outreach, safety, opportunity, and community care.
- Ulster County Tourism: Serving as a key supporting sponsor to amplify the County's vibrant regional identity, coordinate open-space logistics, and promote local tourism.
- AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization): Bringing decades of foundational youth sports expertise and a shared commitment to community-based, inclusive, and positive player development.
- ENSYA (Eastern New York Soccer Youth Association): Providing essential athletic sanctioning, administrative guidance, and competitive alignment to ensure the tournament meets the highest standards of youth soccer.
- United Way of Ulster County: Operating as both our primary event beneficiary and a foundational core partner, directly benefitting local community programs.
- Kingston Physical Therapy: Serving as our official player health and wellness partner.
- Joe O'Connor and Partners: Lending critical local business backing and philanthropic sponsorship to champion regional youth development, athletic opportunity, and community enrichment.
- CDPHP (Capital District Physicians' Health Plan): Championing community health, wellness, and active lifestyles across the region as a major supporter of youth fitness and family-centered outdoor initiatives.
- Registration is FREE but strongly encouraged prior to the event. Teams will be grouped into four categories: Under 8, Under 10, Under 12, and Under 18. Remaining sponsorship opportunities, vendor applications, and final tournament schedules are currently being completed. Local businesses and community organizations interested in participating or supporting the event are encouraged to contact the Ulster County Tourism and Film Department. In the event that the Unity Cup moves to its rain date, an announcement will be posted by Friday, June 5 at 12 noon on the and on County social media channels.
Registration is FREE but strongly encouraged prior to the event. Teams will be grouped into four categories: Under 8, Under 10, Under 12, and Under 18. Remaining sponsorship opportunities, vendor applications, and final tournament schedules are currently being completed. Local businesses and community organizations interested in participating or supporting the event are encouraged to contact the Ulster County Tourism and Film Department. In the event that the Unity Cup moves to its rain date, an announcement will be posted by Friday, June 5 at 12 noon on the Ulster County Tourism website and on County social media channels.
For more information about the tournament, vendor inquiries, or media credentials, please contact Director of Arts, Culture and Open Spaces Sarah Kramer-Harrison at skrh@ulstercountyny.gov.