PEORIA, Ariz. (Friday, May 23, 2014) – Arizona United Soccer Club announced today the donation of $8,000 to help support Arizona Youth Soccer Association club teams that won 2014 Arizona State Cup championships in their respective age groups. All of these teams now qualify for the US Youth Soccer Region IV Far West Regional next month in Albuquerque, N.M. Each of the 16 Arizona state champion teams (8 boys teams and 8 girls teams) will receive a $500 donation from Arizona United SC to go toward travel expenses.

“Youth soccer is the foundation of our sport and we are proud to support these kids as they represent their team and the great state of Arizona in this prestigious youth soccer tournament,” Arizona United Soccer Club owner Kyle Eng said. “These kids have worked hard to represent Arizona in their respective age groups and we are honored to be able to assist them in offsetting their travel costs to New Mexico.”

Mark Thede, Arizona Youth Soccer Association president, said the organization was thrilled and honored to receive the support.

“Arizona United SC has brought a high level of soccer to the greater Phoenix area. With it they have brought a high level of class as well,” Thede said. “From honoring past and present members of our armed services on May 24th [the club is holding a military appreciation day ahead of Monday’s Memorial Day observances] to giving back to our youth soccer players, the club has shown a commitment to the community that we can all be proud of. We look forward to a fantastic partnership and the ability to watch professional soccer in Phoenix.”

The Region IV Far West Regional will be played June 16-22 and the Arizona teams will compete in the U-12 to U-19 age groups.

Before the teams travel to Albuquerque, they will be honored at one of three Arizona United SC home matches: Saturday against Chivas USA Reserves, June 11 against the Dayton Dutch Lions and June 14 against the Rochester Rhinos.

Arizona United SC is the only professional soccer team in the state. Playing in the United States Leagues PRO, the club has enjoyed a strong start to its inaugural season and is currently tied for seventh in the standings with 10 points in seven matches. The team is coached by former professional player Michael Dellorusso.

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