Headed to Havana 2012!

Last summer the U-14 Boys Key West Striker Soccer team traveled to Havana to play in the first ever "Key West - Havana Copa Amistad Soccer Tournament". It was an amazing experience for the 13 players and 12 chaperones who were lucky enough to take part!
We're very excited that this year we have been granted permission by the United States Treasury Department to send three teams to the tournament this year.
On Saturday, July 7, 2012 a U-14 boys team, a U-14 girls team and a U-12 boys team will represent the Key West Strikers in the "Second Annual Key West - Havana Copa Amistad Soccer Tournament".
We're excited and proud to represent Key West and the United States!
We plan to share our experiences both on and off the soccer pitch through updates to this blog throughout the 10 days.

Friday, July 15, 2011

July 15, 2011

 Hola!  After a very long and eventful travel day yesterday from Miami to Havana the Key West Strikers took the field this morning to begin the First Annual Key West - Havana Copa Amistad Tournament.  Opening ceremonies included four teams from the Havana area and then our very own Key West Strikers.  Players lined up with their teams behind their country's respective flags and banners.  The Cuban national anthem was played followed by the "Star Spangled Banner".  It was a very emotional moment for the large crowd.  The following welcome speech was given by Raymond Aji, President of the Cuban Youth Soccer Federation:

     "Dear Boys:  In this moment we have the most beautiful flowers in our town because here in this competition July 15 children from the U.S.A. and Cuba will play as brothers in the most wonderful way - on the sports field.  One more time, futbol is the most interesting thing in sports and it has at its heart the most beautiful treasurer, the children.  The friendship between both people and children is thanks to sports.  
Welcome dear boys, you will always receive peace and love here in Cuba.  We hope many surprises and happy moments for you during your stay here.  In the name of our boys players and the Cuban sports authorities we send you a message of peace and friendship.  
Welcome to you all players and coaches.  Let's play and good luck!"


This warm welcome was followed with the boys from all teams gathering on the field and exchanging welcoming handshakes and wishes of "buena suerte".
Key West's first opponent was team "Plaza".   The Strikers jumped out to an impressive 2-0 lead early with goals by Spencer Hamilton and Adam Swiecki.  However, during the second half the oppressive heat and the long travel day  seemed to catch up with the Strikers and "Plaza" tied the score with 10 minutes left.  The teams were very evenly matched and played hard until the final whistle.
Following the game the Strikers headed back to the pool at the hotel for some much needed R & R.  We are staying at Hotel Montehabana.  Beautiful grounds, lush green landscaping and a huge pool area. Incredible first day to the tournament. Our Cuban hosts couldn't be more welcoming and all teams are excited for another day of futbol "mañana"!

Interesting fact:  All the cars in Cuba are OLD!  Like 1950's old.
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