2026 Kelme Cup (OCKC) Marks a New Era for SoCal Youth Soccer
Irvine, California — The 2026 Kelme Cup, officially recognized as the 24th Orange County Kickoff Classic (OCKC), will mark a significant milestone in the tournament’s long-standing history, introducing major updates while preserving its legacy as one of Southern California’s most respected youth soccer events.
Hosted by Zeta FC Academy in partnership with global sports brand Kelme, the 2026 edition reflects the tournament’s continued growth, modernization, and commitment to elite youth competition.
One-Weekend Format Introduced for the First Time
For the first time in its 24-year history, the Orange County Kickoff Classic will transition from a two-weekend format to a single-weekend tournament.
📅 August 22–23, 2026
👦👧 Boys & Girls Divisions
This strategic change is designed to enhance the competitive atmosphere, improve scheduling efficiency, and create a more immersive experience for teams, families, and coaches.
Expanded Facilities and Increased Capacity
The 2026 Kelme Cup will be hosted across all 21 fields at the Orange County Great Park, in addition to multiple City of Irvine fields, making it one of the largest single-weekend youth soccer tournaments in the region.
🎯 Tournament organizers aim to welcome 600+ teams from across the United States and internationally, further establishing the Kelme Cup as a premier kickoff event for the fall season.
New Leadership, Same Energy
Beginning in 2025, Zeta FC Academy officially assumed ownership and operations of the tournament from its founder, Bart Hess.
The 2026 edition represents:
- The 24th consecutive year of the Orange County Kickoff Classic
- The official rebrand to Kelme Cup (OCKC)
- A renewed vision focused on scale, quality, and international standards
While the name has evolved, tournament leadership emphasized that OCKC’s tradition, competitive integrity, and community roots remain central to the event.
Kelme Entitled Sponsor
As title sponsor, Kelme will play a key role in supporting the tournament and participating teams. Continuing its commitment to youth soccer development, Kelme will provide three (3) complimentary match balls to every registered team.
The partnership underscores a shared mission between Kelme and Zeta FC Academy to elevate the tournament experience through professional-level support and resources.
Tournament Overview
Location:
Irvine, California
- Orange County Great Park
- City of Irvine Fields
Age Groups:
U7 – U19 (Birth Years 2020–2008)
Tournament Fees:
- 7v7 (U7–U10): $845
- 9v9 (U11–U12): $945
- 11v11 (U13–U19): $1,145
Registration Deadline:
August 8, 2026
About KELME Cup (OCKC)
Founded over two decades ago, the Orange County Kickoff Classic has become a cornerstone event in the Southern California youth soccer calendar. Entering its 24th year, the newly branded Kelme Cup (OCKC) continues to unite clubs, players, and families in a competitive, professionally organized tournament environment.