LITTLE HAITI FC’S SUMMER YOUTH TOURNAMENT CONCLUDES SUCCESSFULLY
Miami, FL – The first major Summer Youth Soccer Tournament organized by Little Haiti FC Academy came to a successful conclusion today, marking a significant milestone for youth soccer in the community.
The inaugural competition featured 28 teams representing 16 different academies, providing young athletes with an outstanding platform to showcase their talent, sportsmanship, and passion for the game.
In the U14 Final, Little Haiti FC captured the championship with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Agapê International. The decisive goal was scored by Daniel Louis Innocent, securing the title for the home academy.
The U17 Final delivered another thrilling contest as Hialeah FC defeated Santos FC in a dramatic penalty shootout (5–4) after the teams finished 1–1 in regulation time. Emmanuel Rivero proved to be the difference-maker, coming off the bench to score the equalizing goal before calmly converting the winning fifth penalty to seal the championship for Hialeah FC.
The tournament was a tremendous success, bringing together players, coaches, families, and supporters from across South Florida while celebrating youth development, community spirit, and the love of soccer.
Over the course of three exciting days of soccer, approximately 180 goals were scored, providing unforgettable moments for players, coaches, families, and supporters. The tournament concluded with the following champions in each division:
U10 (D2): Agapê International FC U10 (D3): Level UP Soccer School U12 (D2): Santos FC U12 (D3): Havanna FC U14 (D2): Little Haiti FC U17 (D2): Hialeah FC
Carlos Martinez, head coach of Santos FC, whose academy competed in both the U12 and U17 divisions, expressed his joy following the tournament. He praised the Little Haiti FC Academy staff for organizing an outstanding event and described the organization as flawless. Having worked with his players for the past year, he was especially proud of their performances.
Santos FC captured the U12 championship with a thrilling 3–2 victory over Los Pibes FC, while the academy finished as runner-up in the U17 division, falling to Hialeah FC after a dramatic penalty shootout. The final ended 1–1 in regulation before Hialeah FC prevailed 5–3 on penalties.
Although this was the inaugural edition of the tournament, organizing an event of this magnitude has long been a dream of the Little Haiti FC Academy. Laleau Gomez explained that many successful academies host annual tournaments to showcase and develop young talent, and he wanted to create the same opportunity for the Little Haiti community.
As he often says, “God never gives a vision without providing the means.” He also extended his heartfelt gratitude to Marlene Bastien, Commissioner for District 2, for her unwavering support throughout the planning and successful execution of the event.
Event Coordinator Luis Armelio Garcia emphasized that bringing together 28 teams representing 16 academies was a significant challenge. However, thanks to careful planning, teamwork, and experience, the first edition exceeded expectations and proved to be a tremendous success in every aspect.
The Little Haiti FC Academy currently serves the community through three locations: Manno Sanon Park, Ben Franklin Park in North Miami, and an upcoming program at Allen Park in North Miami Beach. With the success of this inaugural edition, the academy is already looking forward to an even bigger and more spectacular next year.
Thank you to all the players, coaches, parents, volunteers, officials, sponsors, media partners, and supporters who helped make this historic event possible.
LHFC Communications Department
