CLEARFIELD – Over 130 children between the ages of 5 and 10, enjoyed the sunny skies Saturday as they spent their day, competing in the Seventh Annual Spring Soccer Tournament hosted by the Clearfield Soccer Association.
“The tournament has grown each year,” said Todd Trinidad Tournament Director. “We’re excited to offer a fun, friendly environment for the kids to compete.”
This year, the tournament saw participants from West Branch and Curwensville, in addition to the Clearfield recreation teams.
An important component of the tournament is the community outreach. “It’s great to see such support from within the community. From monetary donations, to donations for our concession stand. The Clearfield Soccer Association would not be able to do so much without the support of our many sponsors,” said Bob Aleksivich, Clearfield Soccer Association President.
Aside from a day filled with friendly-competition, the tournament had a collection set up where spectators and visitors were able to contribute to the Mike Auman Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship was set in place after the passing of long time soccer coach, parent, and volunteer Mike Auman, and is awarded to two graduating seniors each spring that have participated in soccer and is pursing a post- high school degree.
While there was much going on and to see, there was one popular location set up where any number of children could be found. Two coaches from UK International Soccer, were promoting the upcoming camp (June 13-17) with an inflatable soccer field. “Ryan (Muras) and myself have been in the Clearfield area for over a month and are overjoyed and humbled by the hospitality of the community. It’s been a pleasure being able to be work with both the Clearfield and DuBois soccer associations and seeing them grow,” said Liam Kelly, UK International coach.
With another tournament in the books as a success, Aleksivich made note that “this tournament is my favorite day of the year for soccer.”