Soccer has been a staple in Watauga County for decades. Appalachian State Men’s Soccer played their first season in 1962 and the Women began playing in 1994. Watauga County Parks & Recreation has been offering youth soccer since 1973 and High Country Soccer Association has been providing professional youth coaching and competitive travel soccer since 1986. The last 10 years has seen unprecedented growth in the sport not only nationwide butlocally as well. Part of the area’s growth is due to the beautiful facility at the Ted Mackorell Soccer Complex built in 2009. Its artificial surface makes for an ideal playing space even under extreme weather.