The LIJSL was represented recently in Portugal as the Commack Crush competed at IberCup Estoril from June 29-July 5.
The Crush earned a bid to IberCup through the LIJSL-run Elite Clubs Alliance League (ECAL). Commack finished atop the GU11 standings in ECAL before making the international trip this summer.
During the competition, the Crush competed against several Portuguese academy teams, including Sporting CP, SL Benfica, SC Braga, and SC Rio Tinto.
“The tournament level was very high,” Commack Crush Coach Jim Walther said. “I was very pleased with my team’s performance. The tournament was run well, and it seemed like everyone really enjoyed the experience and learned a lot of what it takes to play at the next level.”
The exposure to not just top competition abroad, but also the ability to be immersed in another culture at IberCup by way of competing in ECAL presents a truly special experience.
“The opportunity for teams to go abroad and not just participate in a high-level tournament, but also be immersed in a completely different culture is priceless for these players,” LIJSL Technical Director Ronan Wiseman said. “They will learn from their experiences on and off the field and become better players from that experience.”
ECAL will add additional age groups for 2025-26 with the competition running from U9-U13 for both boys and girls. Registration for the upcoming competition is open and teams can register below: