Reef Sports wrapped up its summer youth football tournament on August 22nd, concluding nearly two months of matches that began during the first week of July. Finals for the Under-8 (U8) and Under-12 (U12) categories were played at the Sagebrush Church Sports Complex in the San Mateo area, with matches consisting of two 15-minute halves.
The tournament attracted teams across three age groups, with two U8, four U12, and four U15 teams participating. The competition gave young island athletes a chance to develop their football skills while competing in an organized, supportive environment.
In the U8 final, Baby G Strikers defeated San Mateo Stars 6-1 to claim the championship. In the U12 division, Mendez Stars captured the title after defeating G Strikers 3-1.
Tournament Director Emmerson Novelo said the competition began in July and continued throughout August. Although some players were off the island for portions of the tournament, participation remained strong. The finals followed several weeks of matches that eventually narrowed each division to its top two teams.
In addition to recognizing the championship teams, organizers presented awards to several outstanding players and coaches. In the U8 division, Glenda Sanchez received Best Coach, Kai Zetina Jr. was named Best Defense, and Nathaniel Novelo received Best Forward. Patrick Chavez Jr., age five, earned both the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Best Young Player awards, while Noellie Novelo was named Best Female Player.
In the U12 division, Oscar Mendez received Best Coach, Joshua Betancourt was named Best Goalkeeper, Jadiel Caliz received Best Defense, and Junior Chimilio was recognized as Best Forward. Hezron Escobar earned the MVP award, Miriany Mendez was named Best Female Player, and six-year-old Ryan Mendez received the Best Young Player award. Abel Gilharry also received a special volunteer award for his contribution to the tournament.
Novelo emphasized that giving free sporting opportunities to island children remains at the heart of the initiative. “We’re all about the kids… It’s free. We don’t charge anything for the kids to compete with us,” he said. He added that organizers prioritize providing a safe environment for participants and appreciate the continued support from parents and the community.
Reef Sports is now looking ahead to its inaugural Reef Cup, scheduled for January. Organizers hope to attract at least eight teams per division and said they could consider a larger venue depending on participation.
Through events such as the summer tournament and upcoming Reef Cup, Reef Sports hopes to expand participation and give more opportunities for young footballers to develop their skills through regular competition. Organizers said continued community and parental support will be important as the youth football program grows.