Palm Springs, California - February 6 - 8, 2026
Soccer Career Conference
at the Coachella Valley Invitational
Join us for the 2026 SMWW Soccer Career Conference + Meet & Greet, hosted alongside the Coachella Valley Invitational — the premier MLS & NWSL preseason event. This is where the world of professional soccer converges: players, coaches, agents, scouts, media, and aspiring professionals all in one place.
You’ll see the game like never before, meet the people who run it, and take real steps toward your dream career in soccer — all under the desert sun at the stunning Empire Polo Club.
Why This Event Is a Game-Changer
Spectacular Pro Action, Up Close
Watch up to five matches per day — from training to exhibition — all within walking distance. Teams use soccer fields and warm-up zones you can walk by, putting you just 10–15 feet away from the action. Expect to hear tactical calls, coaching cues, substitutions, and intra-club dynamics just feet away.
Elite People, Real Access
The soccer world shows up here: agents, sporting directors, scouts, analytics experts, media, and club executives. Our SMWW Soccer Career Conference gives you face time with names like Dr. Lynn Lashbrook, Maikel Tsuji, Matt Martin, Gordon Kljestan, and many more.
Meaningful Competition
Though preseason, CVI isn’t just exhibition matches — it’s where rosters are finalized, trials come to life, and fringe players fight for a spot. Every match matters.
In a Venue That Delivers
Set in the scenic Coachella Valley, the Empire Polo Club makes the perfect backdrop. Warm days, dramatic mountains, and a relaxed vibe — but with intense soccer energy. Proximity also means fewer logistical headaches: Palm Springs airport is just 23 miles away, and nearby towns like Indio, La Quinta, and Palm Springs offer lodging options.
What You’ll Do, See & Learn
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Full Days of Professional Soccer
Walk between the two soccer fields and catch multiple MLS matchups in one day. In 2025, for example this was Saturday schedule... and the teams play games both Saturday & Sunday. See 14 teams play in 2 days!-
11 AM — Austin FC vs. St. Louis CITY SC
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12 PM — San Diego FC vs. NYCFC
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1:30 PM — San Jose vs. New York Red Bulls
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2:30 PM — Portland Timbers vs. Chicago Fire FC
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4 PM — Happy Hour!
(Note: schedule is sample from 2025 and will shift for 2026.)
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Panels, Talks & Deep Dives
Our Friday, February 6th SMWW Soccer Career Conference sessions bring you inside front offices: scouting, analytics, player representation, media, and more. Ask questions, compare strategies, and gain insight into pro-level decision making. -
One-on-One Networking
Chat with coaches, agents, and club leaders in casual settings. Build relationships that normally take years. -
360° Access
Pitch sideline views — you’ll be part of the environment, not just a spectator.
Get day passes to watch multiple games from pitch side —purchase your game tickets here! (Game tickets not available till January 2026)
Who Should Attend?
- Aspiring Soccer Professionals: Want to break into the business side of soccer? Learn what it takes from the pros.
- Current Soccer Professionals: Build your network and stay ahead of industry trends.
- College Students & Graduates: If you dream of a soccer career, this event will connect you with decision-makers.
- Soccer Fans & Enthusiasts: Love the game? Get an insider’s view of preseason action and connect with the game’s influencers.
Why the Coachella Valley?
Perfect Setting
With 75-degree sunny weather and the beauty of the Coachella Valley, this event offers the perfect mix of soccer and scenic relaxation. Located in Indio, California, the Empire Polo Club is easily accessible—just 25 miles from Palm Springs, California Airport.
Affordable and Convenient
Inexpensive airfare and lodging make this an easy trip for anyone. Stay in one of the nearby cities, including Palm Springs, La Quinta, or Indio, and enjoy a weekend of soccer excitement.
What to Expect:
- Dates: February 6-8, 2026
- Time: TBA
- Location: TBA (In Coachella Valley close to the soccer pitch at the Empire Polo Grounds)
- Friday, February 6, 2026 - Conference & networking sessions with panels and speakers from those working at the highest level of soccer. Agents, Scouts, Sporting Directors, Analytics, Media, and more.
- Saturday & Sunday, February 7 & 8, 2026 - MLS Games at Empire Polo Grounds - park once and see 8 teams play in one day!
Why This Event Matters
The Coachella Valley Invitational is more than a preseason tournament—it’s a launchpad for soccer careers. This is the last chance for MLS teams to finalize their rosters, and you’ll get to see the top players and emerging talent as they fight for their spots. For fans and professionals alike, this event is a rare chance to see elite competition and connect with industry leaders in one place.
Ready to Kickstart Your Soccer Career?
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to advance your career, grow your network, and experience world-class soccer in one of the most beautiful settings in the world.
Spaces are limited—secure your spot today and take the next step toward your dream career in soccer.
Let’s make your soccer ambitions a reality at the 2026 Soccer Career Conference at the Coachella Valley Invitational!
"The Coachella Valley Invitational has become a premier preseason event in global soccer, thanks to AEG’s expertise in producing world-class events. With state-of-the-art facilities, professional organization, and a unique environment, Coachella provides MLS clubs with a terrific opportunity to prepare for the 2026 upcoming season. " -MLS Commissioner Don Garber
Where to stay?
Look for Airbnbs and hotels in Indio, California, or Indian Wells, California or La Quinta, California, Palm Desert, California. MLS teams stay at the local hotels in all of these cities. The games are played at Empire Polo Grounds.
What airport should I fly in to?
- Palm Springs International (PSP) 23 miles to Empire Polo Grounds in Indio, California
- Ontario, California (ONT) 91 miles to Empire Polo Grounds in Indio, California
- San Diego, California (SAN) 134 miles to Empire Polo Grounds in Indio, California
- Los Angeles International, California (LAX) 145 miles to Empire Polo Grounds in Indio, California
