The Vail Valley Cup: A Celebration of Youth Soccer and Community

Introduction to the Tournament

This weekend, the picturesque Vail Valley is poised to host one of the largest youth soccer tournaments in the region—the Vail Valley Cup Cindy Eskwith Memorial Tournament. With a remarkable turnout expected, it promises to be an unforgettable event, uniting nearly 4,000 young athletes from diverse regions, including Colorado, Idaho, and Wyoming. Over three days, from Friday to Sunday, 218 teams comprising U11 through U19 players will compete across two-dozen fields, bringing vigor and excitement to the area’s vibrant landscape.

Honoring a Legacy

The tournament, now 27 years strong, has grown and evolved, taking on a meaningful legacy since its renaming in 2016 to honor Cindy Eskwith. Eskwith played a pivotal role in the development of youth soccer in the Vail Valley, serving as president of the Vail Valley Soccer Club’s board and instrumental in establishing the very foundation of the Vail Cup. Her dedication and contributions not only expanded the club’s reach but also fostered a new generation of players and referees, inspiring many with her commitment to the sport she loved. Her passing in 2013 after a prolonged battle with cancer left a profound impact on the community, and the tournament serves as a beautiful tribute to her unwavering spirit and passion.

As Kerri Thelan, Executive Director of the Vail Valley Soccer Club, reflects, "Cindy’s influence was felt far and wide. She embraced the community and changed lives through soccer.” The renamed tournament now continues to uphold her mission and vision, welcoming enthusiasts to the fields once cherished by Eskwith.

A Growing Phenomenon

The Vail Valley Cup has seen significant growth in recent years, a testament to the event’s increasing popularity. Last year, the tournament attracted 163 teams; in 2024, that number surged to 193 teams, with a pair of Vail Valley Soccer teams proudly taking home gold medals. This year’s tournament is set to break records, as the excitement continues to grow with each passing season. The expansion not only reflects the depth of talent among young athletes but also the communal spirit that resonates throughout the Vail Valley.

"This Cup exemplifies how competition, community, and opportunity can come together to inspire the next generation," Thelan adds, encapsulating the heart of this vibrant event. Enthusiastic coaches, dedicated referees, and supportive spectators will amplify the spectacle, with an estimated crowd of 12,000 people filling the local restaurants, shops, and hotels, invigorating the economy and showcasing the Valley’s hospitality.

Competitive Spirit and Community Engagement

As teams converge on the fields from all corners of Colorado and beyond, spectators can expect thrilling matches filled with fierce competition and a celebration of soccer. Players ranging from ages 11-19 will showcase their skills, battling it out for top honors and the chance to claim bragging rights in a spirited atmosphere. The tournament will provide ample opportunity for young athletes to demonstrate their grit and teamwork, all while fostering sportsmanship and camaraderie among rival teams.

Local businesses are eagerly preparing for the influx of visitors, which significantly boosts the local economy. This interconnectedness encapsulates the essence of the Vail Valley Cup—it’s more than just soccer; it’s a rallying point for family, friends, and community members. Businesses can thrive during this period, as families explore the Valley while cheering on young athletes. The Vail Valley Cup is truly a convergence of sport, community, and economic opportunity.

The Experience Beyond the Matches

Beyond the competitive matches, the Vail Valley Cup presents a unique opportunity for participants and their families to connect and grow within the soccer community. This event serves as a platform to build lasting friendships, forge new partnerships among clubs, and even inspire future generations of players. As teams arrive, they carry with them not just hopes for trophies, but a commitment to fostering a supportive soccer culture that extends beyond the weekend.

The tournament also boasts a range of festivities, with opportunities for coaches and parents to glean knowledge from workshops and networking events. Engaging talks from seasoned coaches enrich the experience, promising not only an exciting weekend of matches but also valuable insights into player development and growth within the sport.

With dedication, passion, and camaraderie at the forefront, the Vail Valley Cup is poised to not only rewrite records but also strengthen the bonds of the community as it embraces soccer as a vehicle for connection.

More information, including a full tournament schedule, can be found here. As excitement mounts for this year’s tournament, it’s an ideal time to celebrate the enduring spirit of youth soccer in Vail Valley, paying homage to a legacy that inspires both play and purpose.