How Not to Be That Team at The Cup of Dreams (aka all about indoor tournament etiquette)
Before stepping onto The Rink at American Dream, review these indoor tournament tips.
It’s almost go time. You and your squad signed up, the group chat is amping everyone up, and your pre-tournament play list begins with Avicii’s Wake Me Up for obvious reasons.
But let’s get one thing straight: The Cup of Dreams indoor soccer tournament on polished concrete is going to hit different. If you’re not sure how, bless your heart for never slipping on an NYC sidewalk.
So before you storm The Rink for Cup of Dreams, here’s the real truth about indoor tournament etiquette.
Don’t be late
American Dream is the 2nd largest mall in America, which means there will be a lot of people walking about on Saturday, July 26. Avoid being late and running like Forest Gump to find The Rink, because that’s probably not going to end well.
Respect the lines
Aggressive play is fine until someone takes a spill from a shove in the back. Since multiple games will be going on at once, do your dance moves on your assigned dance floor and do help a fallen player up any chance you get.
Keep the Subs Moving
If you're subbing in slow motion, you're doing it wrong. We’re talking line changes, hockey-style, which shouldn’t be hard to imagine since you’re playing in a hockey rink
Always Be Aware When On The Bench
You’re not just resting—you’re resetting. Hydrate, hype your teammates, and maybe plan your next attack (or at least decide who’s in for a Cinnabon run afterwards). Since space can be tight, we’re relying on our bench to stop any loose balls from rolling around
Don’t Hog the Warm-Up Space
Everyone wants to stretch, touch the ball, and feel something vaguely athletic before kickoff. So yeah, maybe don’t take over half the field doing solo shooting drills. Be cool. And don’t even think about trying to break the plastic partition with one of your patented power shots.
Goals Count. So Do Celebrations.
Yes, indoor goals come fast—but don’t let that stop you from celebrating the bangers. High-fives, chest bumps, choreographed dances—we support it all (but try and wrap it up because it’s not like we can stay here overnight).
Just remember: celebrate your goals, not someone else’s mistakes. We’re here to compete, not defeat.
Dream Big, Play Smart
Cup of Dreams isn’t just a vibe—it’s an NYC Footy tradition. Bring the energy, play hard, and leave it all on the concrete.
If the day doesn’t go your way, just remember there are plenty of places nearby that can provide instant gratification (we’re looking at you, Legends of the Hidden Temple Ropes Course Challenge!)
See you Saturday.