7 Elite Academy has thanked national sponsors and local businesses who contributed to a record-breaking 7EA Tournament.

A total of 100 teams from across the western United States gathered in St. George for the competition, which ran from January 31st to February 2nd.

That number far outweighed previous years, as players, coaches and officials enjoyed a three-day celebration of youth soccer.

Attendees enjoyed a day-long social event at Buffalo Wild Wings, while official tournament coins were sponsored by Landmark Risk Management and Insurance.

7 Elite Academy Chief Executive Wayne Scholes was delighted to see so many national and local companies lend their support to the organisation's latest tournament.

He said: “Running an event of this size takes a huge amount of effort, not least from our own fantastic staff, but also from businesses in the area who want to be involved.

“The fact that national companies and those local to Utah were keen to offer us their backing is testament to the high standards shown by our players and staff.

“The 7 Elite Academy marketing team worked closely with marketing staff from our sponsors to ensure brand coverage was maximised throughout the weekend. 

“These close partnerships generated high value exposure and showed a model of success for working with youth soccer organizations.

“I can't thank everyone enough for making this year's tournament a weekend to remember and one that helped to put St. George businesses on the map.”

Other companies that sponsored the competition and supplied food included Safelite Autoglass, Safari Group Hotels, Wilkinson Electric, Pizza Hut, Einstein Brothers Bagels, Chick-Fil-A, Daylight Donuts, Walmart and Costco.

7 Elite Academy players were amongst the big winners at the event, with twelve separate 7EA teams taking home top spot in their brackets.

Daren Woolstenhume, General Manager at 7 Elite Academy, said: “When we started planning the 2019 7EA Tournament, we wanted to build on the success and growth we enjoyed in 2018. We certainly achieved that.

“We were able to create a programme of matches and events that kept everyone entertained throughout the weekend. Much of that is thanks to our excellent sponsors.

“Whenever we work with national and local businesses, we give them maximum brand exposure and trade, in return for their kind support.

“Sponsoring a youth soccer event of this magnitude can only bring positive benefits for everyone involved, including the players, their parents and coaching staff.”