After two weeks of very competitive and emotional play, this past Saturday, champions were crowned in all boys' age groups. The players and teams, who participated in this year's boys Utah Youth Soccer Association's State Cup Tournament, all demonstrated tremendous effort in their attempts to represent the State of Utah at the Far West Regional Tournament. Many of this years final matches, were determined by overtime periods, or kicks from the mark. As a spectator, the soccer was outstanding, and the coaching always intense. As president, I am proud of the efforts of most of our players to not only play hard within the laws of the game, but also in demonstrating gamesmanship and sportsmanship throughout the duration of the two weeks of play.

A special thanks needs to go out to all who contributed to the success of this fall's State Cup. I know that this year's State Cup Committee, headed by Bruce Cuppett and Jodi Wells, has spent hundred of hours in the planning stages of this fall's tournament. The fields this year were in tremendous shape, so special recognition is offered to the facility managers, and club personnel who manage and maintain the playing areas keeping them so immaculate. Appreciation needs to be extended to all of the volunteers who worked as field marshals, field attendants, medical staff, and tournament personnel. Thank you to the UYSA office staff, and our Executive Director Bobby Ginn.

This Fall's State Cup set a benchmark in the number of association sponsors who have donated both money and product to Utah Youth Soccer Association. These sponsors are listed on our website, and I encourage you to support these businesses and organizations who have willingly supported the youth in our organization.

Finally I wish to recognize all of the parents, relatives and friends who have been in attendance to each of the matches. There were many hours spent driving to and from game sites. I can only imagine the many late nights in juggling both soccer and school assignments. Perhaps a little more fast food was provided as dinner than what would normally be allowed. Ultimately you were there to share in the excitement of the wins, and being ready to help pick up the pieces of a loss. Regardless, our organization is nothing without the commitment and sacrifices made by parents and family. To the teams who were unsuccessful, I encourage you to grow from your State Cup experience and become better, and to reset your goals. To the champions, you have the responsibility to represent your age group and our organization next June in Hawaii. Until then Aloha, and I will see you in Hawaii next June.