(submitted by Brian Young)

The Costa Blanca Cup of 2023, one of the biggest soccer tournaments in Europe, was recently held in Benidorm, Spain, from July 3-8 this summer. It brought together players from more than 300 teams, representing 24 different countries from five continents across the globe to play in highly competitive games. Three of our very own Garrard County High School Soccer Players were able to experience this amazing event firsthand. 

Alex Young, Jefferson Morgan and Zak Dailey proudly represented the United States by playing for the Real Kentucky International team where they created lifelong memories, both on and off the field. Like the Olympic games, these boys participated in an unforgettable opening ceremony carrying American flags, while decked out in their red, white and blue official USA uniforms, parading through the streets of Benidorm to an arena celebration that centered on the players. This ceremony gave great encouragement to all of the players and pumped up the excitement for what the week ahead would hold while ending with a spectacular fireworks show! 

Alex, Jefferson and Zak faced fierce competition during the week against three strong teams from Spain and one team from England. As the games were fast paced and intense, these boys were able to fine-tune their foot skills in order to supersede their opponents and earn the right to play in the finals in the top bracket for their age group. In the end, the Costa Blanca Cup of 2023 was an experience that Alex Young, Jefferson Morgan and Zak Dailey will never forget! Traveling to Spain with the Real Kentucky International team this summer has fueled these boys’ drive to bring back what they have learned, continue to grow and improve upon their skills, and then apply it to their games this upcoming soccer season.