Youth Soccer Promoted at Hawai`i Conference
Helping to promote soccer's expanded reach in Hawai`i, Lt. Governor Aiona said the popular sport is among "the best ways to cultivate responsible behavior" in young people across the state.
The Lt. Governor delivers remarks at the annual AYSO Section 7 conference.
The Lt. Governor’s remarks came during the annual American Youth Soccer Organization Section 7 conference last Friday in Waikiki. Section 7 includes the islands of Hawai`i, Kaua`i, O`ahu and Maui.
This year, nearly 21,000 children between the ages of 4 and 19 are involved in AYSO in Hawai‘i.
“Soccer has continued to grow from modest beginnings to one of the largest youth participation sports in our state and our nation,” Lt. Governor Aiona said.
“This is an exciting time. We all know that the lessons we teach the youth of today will be with them for the rest of their lives,” the Lt. Governor added. “The best way to teach our young people is through modeling behavior and getting them involved in activities like soccer. It promotes respect for teammates and opponents alike, and it encourages teamwork and a willingness to work with others toward a common goal.”
In February, the state hosted the inaugural Pan-Pacific Championship, an international professional soccer tournament that brought top soccer teams from Australia, Japan and the United States.
It was estimated that more than 23,000 people attended the championship match, with two-thirds of attendees from Hawai`i. Additionally, the event brought in more than $8 million in visitor spending and $750,000 in direct tax revenue.
- Learn more about AYSO in Hawai`i.
