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A World (Cup) of Gratitude

Posted on November 30, 2022



What do soccer and Santa Claus have in common? On November 25, aka ’Tis the World Cup Day, the sport and the town came together to celebrate Team USA’s match-up with England... and have a festive fun time!

'Tis the World Cup Day 

The day started with the presentation of the official document issued by the town of Santa Claus declaring it to be ’Tis the World Cup Day. On hand for the presentation were the town's president, the town's Chief Elf, the Visitors Bureau director, local soccer players and coaches, Santa himself, and FOX Sports representatives—including Cleatus the FOX Sports mascot.  The proclamation wasn't the only important presentation of the day. Heritage Hills coaches and players happily accepted a generous donation from FOX Sports to the school’s soccer programs!   Then it was time for a little friendly competition as Santa and Cleatus squared off for a soccer match. The pair were joined in play by Heritage Hills soccer team members Dixon Tate and Molly Schnieders while coaches Joe Asbury and Andy Fisher and Brian Fortune of the North Spencer Soccer Association offered cheers from the sidelines.  Soccer players, Cleatus the FOX Sports mascot and Santa play soccer on 'Tis the World Cup Day as soccer coaches watch from the side The main event of the day—the viewing parties at Frosty’s Fun Center and Santa Claus Brewing Co.—kicked off with big crowds at the restaurants. Fast friends Santa and Cleatus greeted guests at both spots, led the crowds in cheers, and posed for photos.   Visitors at both restaurants were treated to some amazing eats and great giveaways as they watched Team USA hold off the heavily favored England in a scoreless draw. 

Thank You for Your Help, Support, and Christmas Cheer 

There were so many individuals, businesses, and organizations involved in making the ’Tis the World Cup Day festivities a success. 
We are grateful to the Town of Santa Claus for marking the special occasion with a proclamation declaring the day to be 'Tis the World Cup Day! Santa Claus Town President Mike Johannes and the town’s Chief Elf, Mrs. Koch, presented the proclamation to Cleatus and FOX representatives alongside Santa and Melissa Arnold of the Spencer County Visitors Bureau. Of course, no journey of Santa’s is complete without a sleigh... thanks to JAWS Collision, Santa was able to drive Cleatus around in style on his gorgeous sleigh. And another thank you to the Santa Claus Police Department for escorting Santa and Cleatus safely around town.
Santa’s Lakeside Cottages provided a picture-perfect setting for the proclamation presentation, donation to the high school soccer teams, and match-up between Santa and Cleatus. Family Roots Nursery lent us gorgeous fresh greenery and décor to spruce up the backgrounds, and the Santa Claus Christmas Store provided festive decorations for an extra-special touch. 
Local photographer Rhonda Hunter captured every special moment of the day—and went above and beyond to help make sure participating locations looked their very best. The national FOX and local WEVV crews documented the day’s activities and helped spread the word about this unique event to the surrounding area. 
None of this would have been as fun without the Heritage Hills Soccer coaches and players and our North Spencer Soccer Association. A special thanks to Joe Asbury, Andy Fischer, Brian Fortune, Dixon Tate, and Molly Schnieders for their help and participation.
Last—but certainly not least—we are grateful to Frosty’s Fun Center and Santa Claus Brewing Co. Both local businesses not only opened their doors to host viewing parties but went the extra mile to decorate, offer specials, and provide a truly memorable experience for 'Tis the World Cup Day in Santa Claus, Indiana.
Santa and Cleatus the FOX Sports mascot sit side-by-side in red chairs and clink mugs on 'Tis the World Cup Day