What to Bring to the Midwest Youth Cup at Wintrust Crossroads

Pack for a March weekend outdoors in northern Illinois: warm layers, rain gear, and a plan to buy food and drinks on-site since outside food and beverage are not allowed. The fields are all turf and all lighted, so you will be outside from morning matches into evening games.

Key facts

• Dress in warm layers for March weather; games run outdoors from day into evening.
• Fields are 100% turf, so there are no rainouts for field conditions.
• Outside food and beverage are not allowed inside the complex.
• All fields are lighted, so temperatures can drop during later matches.

Dress for March in northern Illinois

March weekends near Chicago can be cold, windy, and changeable. Warm layers, a hat, gloves, and a windproof or waterproof outer layer will keep you comfortable through a full day on the sideline. Because all fields are lighted and games run into the evening, pack for temperatures that fall after sunset.

Seating and sideline gear

Spectators watch from the sideline opposite the team benches, and no one is allowed behind the goals. Portable seating such as a folding chair is common at outdoor youth soccer; follow the direction of Wintrust Crossroads staff on where seating is permitted. A blanket and hand warmers are worth adding to your bag for cold matches.

Food and drink planning

Outside food and beverage are not allowed inside the complex, so leave the cooler at home. Plan to buy meals and drinks from the on-site restaurants, bar, or concessions. Bringing a payment method you are comfortable using, with a card and some cash on hand, covers on-site purchases across the weekend.

Weather and turf

The fields are 100% turf, which means no rainouts for field conditions. Even so, bring rain gear for yourself in case of wet weather while you watch. Turf-appropriate footwear and a dry change of clothes for younger siblings are practical additions for a long day at the fields.