After years without a dedicated soccer tournament, Atlantis is set to host the first-ever Atlantis Youth Cup this coming Easter weekend.
Allister Lightburn, Sub-council 1 chairperson, said this event will be an annual one, aiming to uplift young players and re-ignite the community’s passion for the sport. The inaugural tournament will take place on 17, 19 and 21 April at the Robinvale Sports Grounds, he said.
This milestone is the result of a collaborative effort between Atlantis LFA and the local organising committee (LOC), made up of passionate community members, Lightburn and the City of Cape Town.
The LOC’s Usen Jacobs said Lightburn had spoken to him some time before of the possibility of such a tournament and since then took the initiative in bringing all stakeholders together to make it a reality.
Also backed by the South African Football Association (Safa) Cape Town, Jacobs said in its first year, the Atlantis Youth Cup is intended exclusively for local soccer clubs affiliated to the Atlantis LFA, ensuring young players from the community get the opportunity to showcase their talent.
The tournament will feature five age divisions: u-8, u-10, u-12, u-14 and u-16. Beyond the soccer action, the event promises a fun-filled atmosphere with live entertainment, food vendors and a strong call for parents and supporters to rally behind the young athletes, Lightburn said.
While the tournament has already secured sponsors, more are welcome to join this exciting initiative Jacobs said. All proceeds from the event will be reinvested in the young players’ development for the rest of the season.
The Atlantis Youth Cup is more than just a tournament, Lightburn said, it is a move to bring families, communities and young soccer talent together. Don’t miss this historic event as Atlantis reclaims its soccer legacy. For sponsorship and general enquiries, email them at info@atlantisyouthcup.co.za
