WILLIAMSBURG — After a successful first year, the Keeper's Cup Soccer Tournament, held in memory of Connor Guido and Luke Messick and to raise awareness about distracted driving, will resume March 11. .
Guido and Messick were both soccer players who died in a car accident caused by distracted driving. This tournament brings together 12 high school varsity soccer teams and junior varsity soccer teams to play against each other.
The tournament, scheduled for March 11-14 at the Warhill Sports Complex, will be held over three nights and will see more than 600 athletes compete for the Keeper's Cup trophy.
Participants include several safety organizations including DriveSmart VA, York-Poquoson Sheriff's Office, James City County Police Department, Christopher King Foundation, Face of Heroes, Mallory's Movement, MMBT/VDOT, and James City You will also have the opportunity to meet the driving group. County Fire and Emergency Services, AAA Tidewater, VDOT Williamsburg, Virginia Youth Speaks About Traffic Safety (YOVASO), C&F Bank, State Farm Becky Ringley.
“One way to prioritize safety off the field is to encourage student-athletes to participate in interactive activities with first responders and safe driving advocates on the scene. We provide valuable information and resources to educate and empower players to make responsible decisions behind the wheel. All players will be invited to participate in the Safe Driving Booth during the event and take advantage of this opportunity. We highly recommend it,” said event creator Tammy Guido.
Violence prevention trailers, monster trucks, safety service trucks, fire trucks and ambulances, a pedal car course, and dump trucks will also be at the venue.
Guido encourages athletes to visit all booths at the tournament.
“We believe that by coming together as a community, we can make a positive impact not only on the field, but also in promoting safe driving habits and fostering a supportive environment for our young athletes,” Guido said. said.
New this year, athletes and spectators can now bring in gently used soccer sportswear for the Messick Foundation to support Ghana's soccer team.
“As part of this year’s tournament, Luke Messick Football Charities will collect gently used shoes, shirts and shorts for an orphan football team in Ghana. To date, we have We collected and distributed 500 pounds of equipment to the community,” Guido said.
Spectators are asked to donate $10 per day or $20 for a three-day pass to attend the event. Passes can be purchased online.
For more information on the tournament, visit connergweedo.com or lukemessickfc.com.