Hundreds of soccer fans gathered at Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre in Eisenhower Park on June 19 for Soccer In The Park, a community watch party hosted by The Island FC in partnership with Nassau County.
The event featured a live broadcast of the FIFA World Cup 2026 match between the United States and Australia, drawing families, youth soccer players and fans of all ages to one of the county’s most popular outdoor venues. Attendees spread out across the theater grounds with lawn chairs and blankets while enjoying concessions, giveaways and family-friendly activities before and during the match.
“Nassau County is proud to partner with The Island FC to bring this exciting event to Eisenhower Park,” County Executive Bruce Blakeman said of the event. “FIFA World Cup 26 is the biggest sporting event in the world, and Soccer In The Park is a great opportunity for residents and families to come together, celebrate the game, and enjoy a world-class community experience right here in Nassau County.”
The gathering served as the first official community activation for The Island FC, Long Island’s MLS NEXT Pro club, as it continues preparations for its inaugural professional season.
“This is about more than watching a soccer match — it’s about bringing Long Islanders together around the beautiful game,” Travis Lamprecht, The Island FC’s president of business operations, said. “Long Island has an incredible soccer culture and deep passion for the sport at every level. We’re proud to partner with Nassau County on our first community event and create an experience that feels welcoming, energetic and truly representative of this community.”
The Island FC is expected to launch its MLS NEXT Pro team in 2027 as part of its effort to create a pathway from youth soccer to the professional ranks. Organizers said the watch party reflected the club’s broader mission of connecting with communities across Long Island through soccer and shared experiences.
The event comes as interest in soccer continues to grow throughout the region, fueled in part by the World Cup. Fans gathered throughout the afternoon to cheer on Team USA and celebrate the global game in a festive, family-oriented atmosphere.
During the match, the U.S. defeated Australia 2-0, off an own goal forced by Folarin Balogun and a header from the 21-year-old Alex Freeman. The win allowed the U.S. to secure the top seed in their preliminary group and advance to the Round of 32. The team will play one more group stage game against Türkiye on June 25. Their first knockout game will be on July 1 against a yet-to-be-determined opponent.
