A dozen soccer teams comprising 108 players from the Aurora area converged on Montgomery Saturday, Aug. 10, for the inaugural 7 on 7 Fox Valley Christian Cup soccer tourney.
St. Luke’s Lutheran Church was host to the day-long competition on the Church grounds. Iglesia San Pablo, an Aurora church, was a co-sponsor.
The tournament started at 7 a.m. and culminated with an awards ceremony after the 7:30 p.m. championship game.
Organizer Charlie Miles, a St. Luke’s member, said the event was started to increase community outreach. Tournament proceeds will benefit church ministries.
Mexiquense Jr and Atlético Mexiquense, comprising players from Mexiquense FC (Aurora), took first and second places, earning $400 and $200 cash prizes, respectively, and trophies. Naperville North High School took third place and was awarded a $100. cash prize and a trophy. Individuals awarded trophies were Sebastian Martinez, top goalkeeper; Cian O’Moore, top defender; and. Giovanni Magaña, Mexiquense Jr, player of the tournament.
According to Miles, the Fox Valley Christian Cup will expand next year with new brackets to welcome more teams, foster community engagement and promote unity through competition.
Soft drinks and food were available for purchase.
St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 63 Fernwood Drive in Montgomery, offers services, Bible studies and outreach programs. Iglesia Luterana San Pablo serves the spiritual, cultural, and social needs of its vibrant, predominantly, Hispanic community.
—Al Benson