Mr. Woo, an international soccer icon lives for soccer. This last week, he lived for Puget Sound soccer. With the world renowned champion of freestyle soccer in town, it was a perfect time to debut the newest member of the Tacoma Tide team; Surf Dude. The new mascot excited crowds, added to the environment, and Mr. Woo did the rest. Mr. Woo, a native or South Korea, holds the world record for juggling the ball on his head for over 5 hours. He also says he’s overall juggling record is more than 9 hours!

Mr. Woo’s Washington tour began at the Mexico vs. China game, performing in front of 55,000 screaming fans. The Tide teamed up at his performances at Gig Harbor Indoor Soccer Center, Mt. Tahoma HS, Starfire Soccer Complex, and SoccerPalooza. The S. Korean performer oohed and ahhed crowds with his exceptional skill and continued the excitement for soccer in the Puget Sound.

The culmination of Mr. Woo’s visit to Washington was SoccerPalooza. It was also the unveiling of the Tacoma Tide Surf Dude’s soccer skills. In a thrilling match against rival mascots, Surf Dude led the way with the first goal and overall goals. A surfer by nature, Surf Dude can also knock the ball around. Come see his skills in person! The Tacoma Tide home opener is May 11th at 1:00pm (Curtis HS Stadium). Show your mother a fun afternoon on Mother’s Day with the Tacoma Tide. Get a FREE Tide scarf with the purchase of a season ticket.

Photos by Samantha Mitchell