While the world was captivated watching the MLS League Cup on TV, youngster Parker Knowles was enjoying a front-row view. The local 10-year-old got to see one of the best soccer matches played on US soil up close as he served as team mascot for Nashville SC in its battle against Inter Miami CF for the championship.

Knowles has been an avid fan of Nashville SC since the pro team debuted in the MLS in 2020 and has been enjoying season tickets since Geodis Park opened last year. While over 30,000 people packed the stands for the unforgettable final match – one Inter Miami CF won on penalty kicks 10-9 – Knowles was able to go on the field for introductions and accompany one of his favorite players.

“Parker said the experience of getting to walk with Hany Mukhtar during the MLS League Cup final, while they played Lionel Messi, was a memory he will never forget,” said Parker’s grandmother, Teresa Knowles.

With thousands of screaming fans going crazy before the finale, Parker calmly strolled onto the field beside one of the best soccer players in the MLS. Mukhtar, a German who was the first designated player in Nashville SC history (as a MLS team), has been the team’s star for years, including winning the Golden Boot in 2022 after scoring a league-high 23 goals. 

Mukhtar and Knowles, the son of Andy and Chelsea Knowles and the grandson of Levoy and Teresa Knowles, gave up a thumbs up to the capacity crowd entering the pitch and celebrated together as fireworks kicked off the festivities.

The action after the introductions provided its fair share of fireworks too. Messi, regarded as one of the best soccer players ever, scored early in the match, while Nashville SC tied off a corner early in the second half.

The match eventually went to PKs, with both teams ultimately having to summon their keepers for kicks. Inter Miami CF keeper Drake Callender was the hero at the end, scoring the final PK and stopping Nashville’s to lead his team to victory.

Parker is hoping to make plenty of memories playing soccer, with his excitement for the game only growing after being part of such a historical match. He plays for a travel club out of Cookeville, All-in Soccer, and also enjoys playing basketball in youth leagues. He’s already a revered performer locally too, having made his singing debut last year at Fairest of the Fair (he also takes piano lessons). 

Parker seemingly always knows how to be in front of large crowds.