The 2018 Tournament is over! The first 7 Elite Academy tournament has been declared a “massive success” after hundreds of youngsters took part in the three-day event in St. George.

Organizers had originally intended to run a two-day tournament at the Sullivan Soccer Complex, but added an extra day at late notice after 65 teams registered to play.

7 Elite Academy teams won five separate age divisions, including 03, 04 and 06 girls, as well as 04 and 08 boys.

The academy also reached the finals in all eight boys categories and six out of seven of the girls age brackets.

Wayne Scholes, CEO of 7 Elite Academy, was delighted to see so many teams take part on a sun-drenched weekend.

He said: “It has been an incredible weekend for everyone connected with the academy, and a great achievement to put on such a great event after just a year of operations.

“When we started to put the tournament together, I never dreamed it would be such a massive success, but it has really proven to be.

“Not only did we have great success on the field, but we also saw parents and coaches enjoy a great social weekend on the sidelines. I am so proud of all our players.

“I want to thank every single person who has helped to run our first tournament, from the staff, to the coaches, parents and of course players.”

Games took place at the Sullivan Soccer Complex and nearby Little Valley Fields, as players gathered from across Utah.

The tournament marked the latest step in an impressive start to 2018 for the organization, after its Under-14, Under-16, Under17 and Under-18 boys swept to glory at the recent RSL President’s Cup.

Daren Woolstenhume, General Manager of 7 Elite Academy, added: “The attitude of everyone connected with our academy has been exemplary this weekend.

“The fact that we won so many divisions shows how much we value the development of youth soccer right here in Utah.

“The success of this tournament shows how our global links are being recognised across the state.”

“We have a great year of events coming up and this sets us in great stead for a busy 2018.”