The GGS Cultural Global Immersion was created to provide players with a meaningful international experience that reaches beyond the soccer field.Through international competition, cultural exploration, and shared experiences, players will develop confidence, independence, adaptability, and a greater appreciation for the world around them. They will represent GGS internationally, form new friendships, and experience firsthand how soccer connects people across cultures.This is more than a tournament—it is an opportunity for our players to grow as athletes and individuals while creating lifelong memories.

Few countries live and breathe soccer like Mexico.Mexico offers the perfect combination of soccer, culture, history, and hospitality. As one of the host nations of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the country recently welcomed the world and celebrated its deep passion for the game.Mérida and the surrounding Yucatán region give our families the opportunity to experience historic landmarks, natural wonders, beautiful beaches, traditional cuisine, and a vibrant local culture—all while participating in an international soccer tournament.

During this four-night international showcase, players will:Compete against quality local Mexican clubsTrain in a new soccer environmentLearn different playing styles and culturesExperience authentic Mexican traditions and cuisineVisit local attractions and historical landmarksCreate friendships with players from another countryRepresent GGS on the international stageBuild confidence, independence, and leadership through travelThis trip has been carefully designed to balance competitive soccer with meaningful cultural experiences, giving players memories that will last a lifetime.

The GGS Global Showcase will take place from January 21–25, 2027. Participants will fly into Cancún on January 21 and return home on January 25.

The trip is open to boys and girls in the U10–U13 age groups, along with their Parent/Guardian. Special consideration may be given to younger or older players based on availability and team placement.Players will represent GGS Team USA during the tournament.

Thursday, January 21 – Arrival and Chichén ItzáParticipants will arrive in Cancún, board our private bus, and travel to Chichén Itzá. The group will have lunch and explore this historic destination before continuing to the hotel in Mérida. Later that evening, we will visit a local mall and have dinner.Friday, January 22 – Cultural Experience and TrainingThe day will begin with breakfast at Boston Pizza, followed by a tournament press conference. Afterward, the group will visit a cenote, one of Mexico’s beautiful natural sinkholes, and have lunch. Players will then participate in a team practice before returning to the hotel to prepare for dinner at a local restaurant.Saturday, January 23 – Tournament and Downtown MéridaTournament play will begin during the morning and continue into the early afternoon. After the games, participants will return to the hotel to shower and prepare for an evening visit to downtown Mérida, where the group will explore the city and enjoy dinner.Sunday, January 24 – Tournament and Progreso BeachTournament play will continue in the morning. After the games and lunch, the group will visit Progreso Beach. We will then return to the hotel and finish the evening with dinner at a local restaurant.Monday, January 25 – Return HomeThe group will check out of the hotel, travel to the airport, and return home.NOTE: The itinerary is subject to adjustments based on tournament schedules, travel conditions, and activity availability.

The GGS Global Showcase package is $575 per athlete and $275 per travel companion. What is included in the package?The package includes:Private group bus transportation in MexicoTournament participationAdmission to scheduled parks and attractionsGGS Team USA uniform for athletesSpirit wear gear for travel companionsBreakfast each morningWhat is not included?The following expenses are separate from the package:Round-trip airfare (SEE BELOW)Hotel accommodations (SEE BELOW)Lunch and dinner (SEE BELOW)Personal purchases and optional activitiesAdult beveragesROUND-TRIP AIRFARE - GGS will provide participants with the exact flights they must purchase so the group can travel and arrive together. Flights during this period may range from approximately $400 to $600 per person. Families are encouraged to commit and purchase their tickets early to secure better pricing.HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS - The group will stay at the Hampton Inn by Hilton Mérida (mandatory location). Hotel pricing is roughly $320 for the 4-night stay.Why are lunch and dinner not included?Mexico offers a wonderful variety of food, and every traveler has different preferences. By keeping lunch and dinner separate, each person can choose what they would like to eat at the restaurants we visit. Adults will also be able to order their preferred beverages separately. We recommend budgeting approximately $200-300 per person for meals during the trip.

This trip is an opportunity for our players to represent GGS internationally, experience a different culture, and grow beyond the game. One player and parent will receive their packages and airfare through our Passport to Legacy fundraising challenge. More information will be coming shortly, and we encourage every interested family to be on the lookout for information.