Our 2010B State Navy team, led by Coach Kyle Bak, recently had the thrilling opportunity to compete in the prestigious Surf Cup International in Salou, Spain. With 178 teams from 26 countries and 6 continents, this tournament brought together some of the best youth soccer talent from around the world. The experience was one of growth, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments, all while competing at an elite level.

Our Team’s Journey to Salou

The road to the Surf Cup International began in March, when our team triumphed in the Platinum bracket at Copa Surf, securing our spot in this international competition. As a U15 team, our journey to Spain was unique. Seventy-five percent of our players had been involved in high school soccer during the spring season, while the remaining 25% played for our 8th-grade team in the fall. After high school soccer wrapped up, we had only four training sessions and two practice games to prepare for the tournament.

One of the most memorable moments was the return of Harry Cookson, a player who had left our team over the summer when his family moved to Singapore. Reuniting with Harry and welcoming him back into the fold was incredibly special, and his presence contributed to the team’s excitement and unity leading up to the competition.

Tournament Overview

Held in the picturesque coastal town of Salou, Spain, the Surf Cup International featured a competitive mix of group stages and knockout rounds. Our team faced off against top youth teams like Granada CF, Nastic Sports Academy, and FBB Reus in the group stages. Despite the tough competition, our team advanced to the Quarterfinals in the Silver bracket, where we met Guri Buyang FC from South Korea.

In a hard-fought quarterfinal, we were narrowly defeated 1-0. However, the result didn’t overshadow the journey. The experience was about more than winning or losing—it was about growth, learning, and the camaraderie that came from competing at such a high level. Our players showed resilience and a strong team spirit, leaving the field with pride in their performance.

Players Reflect on the Experience

Luis Gutierrez: “Surf Cup International was amazing! We had a chance to travel away from home and face teams from around the world. It was a great experience to play against some of the best professional and local clubs and see the level in which they play. The tournament for my team may not have gone the way we wanted, but we took something from it. It was a learning experience to play at a top level of football, which motivated me to work harder.”

Jack Martorana: “I enjoyed playing against international teams. The competition level was high, and it was a great opportunity. I learned there is more to soccer. Going to Spain taught me a lot and I was able to see others play the game in a different way.”

Harry Cookson: “This tournament was a great experience for me and I enjoyed it thoroughly. It was a well-organized event with amazing accommodations, including a basketball court, mini football pitch, tennis court, sand volleyball, and mini golf all available to hotel guests.”

Coach Kyle Bak’s Reflections on the Tournament:

“The tournament gave me and the rest of the team an opportunity to see what it takes to reach academy level. Competing against teams like Granada and Real Zaragoza showed me what level I need to reach to make an academy. The tournament also gave smaller teams more exposure, showing coaches and scouts their capabilities. I was able to meet and connect with other coaches and players, for example, talking with the Stoke City academy players. The format worked well, separating the 3rd and 4th place teams into another bracket, so they could play knockout games against teams at a similar level, creating more competition. For me, it also opened my eyes to Spanish football. We played Granada and FB Reus in our group, and they played amazing football, moving the ball at an incredible tempo and breaking down teams with ease. The event also gave the players the experience of being at an academy and understanding how high-level competitions work. The Surf association did an amazing job organizing the event, which was focused around the players, something that doesn’t always happen. Overall, the tournament was amazing, and any player would be lucky to be involved.”

Looking Ahead

The Salou tournament was a valuable experience for the 2010B State Navy team, providing both challenges and opportunities for growth. Our players returned home with improved technical skills, enhanced tactical awareness, and a renewed passion for the game. As we continue our season, we are excited to build on the momentum gained from this international experience and strive for even greater success.

A big thank you goes to our parents, supporters, and everyone who made this journey possible. We’re grateful for the encouragement and commitment that allowed us to take part in this life-changing event. We can’t wait for the next opportunity to compete internationally and represent our team on the world stage once again.