The 2019 FFAS Summer Youth League kicked off to another full house, with 71 teams competing in four different age groups.
There is the mixed 4-6 division, the mixed 7-9 bracket, and then boys and girls for the 10-12 and 13-15 ages with all games played at Pago Park Soccer Stadium.
“We are looking forward to another great year of games for our Summer Youth League, and don’t forget as a participant of all six days, you will receive great prizes from our association,” said FFAS President, Sen. Faiivae Iuli Alex Godinet, after officially opening the competition.
This year’s competition has improved by at least five teams, with 66 registered last year, and a total of 71 for 2019.
“Every year our Summer Youth League keeps increasing in terms of team numbers,” explained FFAS CEO, Tavita Taumua. “This is a great thing for our association.”
The younger age groups, 12 and under, are playing in a non-competitive format, as no wins and losses are counted. This is the developmental stage for the players, and it is all about enjoying the game and having fun.
For the 13-15 age group, they are playing a single round robin format with 11 teams in the boys competition, and 11 in the girls group. This is the last year this age group will be included in the Summer Youth League as they will be having their own 11-a-side, national league competition kicking off later this month. It will be an annual national league competition for the U-15 age.
Vaiala Tongan’s boys team and Black Roses’ girls teams are the defending champions for the 13-15 age group, respectively.
The team with the best record at the end of the round robin schedule will be crowned champions.
FFAS, as it has in the past, will be giving out prizes to all age groups in the form of school supplies, such as notebooks, pencils, coloring books, school bag, etc. Each team will be provided snacks and drinks too.
For the competitive age group, teams will be receiving monetary prizes and a championship trophy for the winning team, as well as snacks and drinks.
The Summer Youth League is set to end August 10, 2019.
