CARSON, Calif. - The Los Angeles Galaxy announced today that they are joining forces with HERDEZ to present the fourth annual Copa L.A. youth soccer tournament next weekend, May 28-30, at the San Bernardino Soccer Complex. The change in venue comes after the club hosted the first three editions of the event at the Lancaster National Soccer Center.
Copa L.A., a tournament for unaffiliated Hispanic youth soccer teams, provides an opportunity for players to be seen by Galaxy scouts as well as their counterparts from Southland colleges. All those scouting the players will be looking to strike gold with some the yet-to-be discovered talent that abounds throughout Southern California.
"We are extremely proud to host Copa L.A. for the fourth consecutive year. In our first three years, we have seen many stars emerge from this event and we expect no different this year," said Galaxy President and General Manager Doug Hamilton. "Once again, the Galaxy feel that Copa L.A. is a great opportunity for many talented young players throughout Southern California to compete in and be noticed by not only the Galaxy, but also a variety of college coaches."
More than 80 teams ranging in age from Under-9 to Under-19 will compete in the event. Group preliminary matches will be played Saturday and Sunday with the semifinals and finals in each age category to be contested on Monday.
Several Los Angeles Galaxy players will be in attendance and signing autographs for fans on Sunday afternoon. In addition, Galaxy Director of Coaching Programs Ralph Perez will also be on-site watching games and scouting talent, alongside several college coaches.
In addition to HERDEZ, several other Los Angeles Galaxy sponsors are assisting the club in putting on the 2005 edition of Copa LA. Kohl's, La Curacao, Nike and Western Union are also helping sponsor this year's tournament. More information on the tournament is available by calling the Galaxy at (310) 630-2200 and asking for Copa LA or by visiting the Galaxy's official website at www.lagalaxy.com.
The Los Angeles Galaxy are proud to announce that the Year of the Uniform will continue on June 4 when the club faces the MetroStars at The Home Depot Center. For as little as $88, a family of four will receive four tickets to that night's match and two vouchers redeemable for Galaxy youth replica shorts at the game. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call the Galaxy toll-free at 1-877-3-GALAXY.
