Cayman’s youth soccer players impress at Disney Cup‏

(CNS): Over 70 up-and-coming Cayman soccer stars left their hearts on the field, participating in the famed Disney Cup International Youth Soccer Tournament in Orlando, Florida July 15-20th, 2013. This longstanding tournament attracts youth teams from over 20 countries internationally, including Canada, USA, Venezuela, Brazil and Costa Rica. Growing into one of the largest tournaments of its kind, U9 through U19 youth teams play on the world class ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, located directly in Disney.

With a unique opportunity for youngsters to play on professional fields and make it to the “big screen”, Cayman’s Academy Sports Club travelled to the prestige event to represent their country in the 5 day tournament. 

With fiveboys teams participating from Cayman, U10, U12, U13, U15 and U16, Cayman was one of the largest contingents represented at the tournament. Head Coach Virgil Seymour was extremely pleased with the results from his players stating “it is with great pride I congratulate all our players on their success at the Disney Cup. In only our second year participating, the talent and dedication from the players was very impressive.”

The U10 team achieved the highest tournament ranking of their Cayman teammates, losing only in the Gold medal match to a team from Venezuela. All Academy Sports Club teams played in the Premier division, the highest level of the tournament, which is indicative of past performance. U10 Coach Paul Byles says “I am so pleased with the passion on the field displayed by the U10 players. Their attitude both on and off the pitch was a true reflection of their Caymanian roots, and I am looking forward to working again with this great group of kids.”

Byles also said the U12 team played very well in a large and tough group. The club is also very proud of their performance, they performed well in their group and we are looking forward to the next tournament", he added.

The U13s were runner-up in the Silver finals, U15s runner-up in Silver finals and U16s Gold Semi-finalists. Academy Sports Club coaches include Paul Byles (U10 and U12), Ken Downey (U13), Virgil Seymour (U15) and Glen Whewell (U16).

Ms. Seymour goes on to say “our success was possible from the combined efforts of the athletes, parents, volunteers and sponsors. Without the support and hard-work of all involved, Academy Sports Club wouldn’t have had the opportunity to show the world our talents on the pitch. Thank you for making this possible.”