Offside Marketing has been announced as the presenting sponsor of the 2021 Lower League eCup. In a joint press release, Jason Lansdale, the founder of Offside Marketing, highlighted the importance of the eCup during the pandemic. "Having the opportunity to support the 2021 Lower League eCup gives yet another opportunity for our soccer community to stay connected during this pandemic. We are happy to join the other soccer industry partners and sponsors for the 2021 eCup."

The tournament has become a favorite for lower league soccer fans across the country and was wildly popular in 2020, when most soccer leagues were shuttered due to the pandemic. Joe Meyer, the President of the Lower League eCup, has been incredibly instrumental in generating buzz and creating something for fans of grassroots soccer to connect over, while live soccer is unsafe and, in some cases, not allowed by local authorities. "The eCup's partnership with Offside Marketing will allow it's all-volunteer staff to cover operating costs and provide an enhanced experience for eCup players, clubs, and supporters."

The 2021 edition of the tournament is set to kick off on January 12th and run through February 21st. The tournament is sure to attract much attention from soccer twitter, as little (if any) soccer is being played during that window. Meyer is counting on 50-60 teams making up the 2021 tournament field, which would be half the size of the 2020 field. “With teams returning to play, we anticipated a smaller tournament that will allow us to focus on improving organizational aspects of the eCup, leading to an even better experience for all clubs and players.”

Offside Marketing joins Smallworld Soccer, The Midfield Brand, and Icarus FC as sponsors of the 2021 tournament.

- Dan Vaughn

Protagonist Soccer was a sponsor of the 2020 tournament.