Lanier Soccer Assn. hosting tournament this weekend

GAINESVILLE - There are a three athletic venues in the Gainesville area that really pack in the athletes, spectators and coaches for big events. Those would include the Lake Lanier Olympic Center, Road Atlanta and Allen Creek Soccer Complex.<br /> <br /> This weekend, the soccer complex is playing host to a monster-sized tournament. <br /> <br /> The Lanier Soccer Association's second annual Sharks Shootout begins Saturday morning and continues until late Sunday afternoon and is expected to attract 157 teams. There were 120 that participated last year. The matches, for ages ranging from "under 8" to 14, will be played at the Allen Creek venue and also at Tadmore.<br /> <br /> There will be more than just soccer taking place, however. Four food trucks, a "bouncy house," and DJ will provide food and other entertainment. <br /> <br /> Grant Kevins, Executive Director of Soccer for the Lanier Soccer Association, says 2,000-3,000 are expected for the event, including 10-12 players per team.<br /> <br /> "It is extremely hectic, but we have a very good supporting staff," Kevins said.<br /> <br /> As for the impact on the local economy, he says most people don't stay for the weekend, instead they commute. Though there are teams from other parts of the state, some from as far away as Dalton, Kevins said most are from metro Atlanta. <br /> <br /> "Anybody that reaches out to us, we're very open about handing out coupons or supporting the local businesses. We do a good job of encouraging that, but I would say that most everybody is going to commute in." <br /> <br /> Matches were to begin at 8:00 a.m. Saturday. <br />