Four promising young footballers from IDA-Bermuda have made their mark on the international stage after traveling to San Diego to compete in the prestigious Surf Nation Champions League. The event, which focuses on the 2012 birth year, serves as a critical identification platform for the Surf Select national program.
Vashon Martin, Xavier Hidalgo, and Cairo Burgess represented the New England Surf Select North East boys' team with distinction. The trio played a pivotal role in leading their side to the championship title in the Bronze flight, finishing the tournament with an undefeated record. Their campaign began with a dominant 7-1 victory over San Diego Surf ECNL Blue, followed by a clinical 3-0 win against San Diego Surf ECNL White. They secured their place in the final after defeating Solano Surf ECNL 3-1, before ultimately lifting the trophy with a comprehensive 5-5 victory over Monterey Surf in the final.
In the Girls' Division, Devi Samuels joined forces with Canada’s Ottawa City SC in the Under 14 Silver Division. Samuels helped her side navigate a competitive group phase to finish in second place. After an opening setback against Empire Surf, the team rallied to secure a 3-1 win over Hawaii Surf SC and a 2-0 victory against Central Coast Surf. Unfortunately, the chance for further silverware was thwarted by the elements, as a severe storm in Southern California caused the final showcase games to be rained out.
The Surf Select program is a high-level national pathway designed for players aged 9 to 17 who possess the ambition to compete at the highest level of youth soccer. With 56 clubs across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, the network provides a significant platform for talent. Bermuda's involvement is facilitated through a partnership between the Warwick Football Academy and the International Development Academy, an affiliate of Surf Soccer.
Under the guidance of Richard Todd, these opportunities allow Bermudian players to guest play for regional teams and participate in world-renowned events such as the Super Cup Northern Ireland. Following their strong performances in San Diego, the four players now await news on potential selection for the National Surf Select rosters. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to compete in the Surf Cup International in Salou, Spain, and the Target USA Cup in Minnesota later this year.
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