PROFESSIONAL SOCCER TOURNAMENT TO DEBUT IN HAWAI`I
November 29 - Lt.
Governor Aiona Lt. Governor Aiona participated in a news conference on to
announce plans for Hawai`i to host a new international soccer tournament in
2008, broadening the state's appeal for major sporting events.
The Lt. Governor was joined by officials from Japan, Australia and Major
League Soccer during the announcement of the inaugural Pan-Pacific
Championship, which will crown the top club from Asian and North American
soccer confederations.
"This event will bring premier soccer players to the state and help us
showcase Hawai`i as an ideal location for major international sporting
events," Lt. Governor Aiona said. "Hawai`i's Pacific location, resources and
fan base are uniquely situated to meet the growing needs of professional
sports organizations."
Reigning MLS Cup champion Houston Dynamo, Yamazaki Nabisco Cup champion
Gamba Osaka, SuperLiga finalist Los Angeles Galaxy and a Hyundai A-League
Final Series team will compete in double-header matches on Feb. 20 and Feb.
23 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu.
Haleiwa's Brian Ching and British superstar David Beckham will be among
those vying for the Pan-Pacific title.
