Mitchell Soccer Association seeks $5K grant for Palace City Cup spring tournament

In the heart of Mitchell, South Dakota, the Sports & Events Authority convened on May 20, 2025, to discuss a series of exciting upcoming events that promise to engage the community and attract visitors. The meeting highlighted three key events: the Palace City Cup soccer tournament, the Palace City Mountain Bike Classic, and a new amateur baseball classic.

Scott Mollmeister, representing the Mitchell Soccer Association, kicked off the discussions with a request for a $5,000 grant to support the Palace City Cup, a spring soccer tournament scheduled for June. Mollmeister shared that the tournament aims to attract around 41 teams, similar to the successful fall tournament, with registration still open. The primary expense for the tournament will be referees, which accounted for a significant portion of costs in previous events. The tournament will feature age groups from U9 to U18, providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills.

Next, Courtney from the local bike shop presented the Palace City Mountain Bike Classic, now in its fourth year. This year, the event is expected to draw around 100 riders, with a significant number coming from outside Mitchell. The race will introduce an e-bike class, catering to a growing interest in electric biking. Additionally, the event will feature races for younger children, aiming to foster a love for biking among the youth. Courtney emphasized the importance of the event in funding a new outdoor fitness park in Mitchell, showcasing the community's commitment to promoting active lifestyles.

The meeting also introduced a new amateur baseball classic, organized by Jason Christiansen. This event will coincide with the Harv's baseball tournament, featuring 12 teams and a variety of activities to engage spectators. Christiansen expressed optimism about the event's potential to grow in future years, highlighting the community's increasing interest in sports and events.

As the meeting progressed, discussions turned to the Arts in the Park event, which aims to build on last year's success, drawing an estimated 10,000 attendees. Organizer Jordan Hanson noted that this year would likely be the last for seeking financial support, as they plan to secure sponsorships to ensure the event's sustainability.

The meeting concluded with a discussion about the upcoming women's state softball tournament, which has faced challenges regarding funding and local association support. The committee is exploring options to enhance profitability for local associations, including the potential for selling concessions and alcohol during the event.

As Mitchell gears up for a summer filled with sports and community gatherings, the enthusiasm from organizers and participants alike reflects a vibrant local culture eager to embrace these events. The collaborative efforts of the Sports & Events Authority and local organizations promise to make this summer one to remember for residents and visitors alike.