Play begins in annual tourney

There are all-star type players and others who are just learning. There are experienced coaches and others who are making their debut. Whatever the label, there are a whole lot of them.

The Daily Pilot Cup youth soccer tournament, which is in its eighth year, opened Tuesday on fields at the Costa Mesa Farm Complex and Costa Mesa High School.

Boys and girls from elementary schools in the Newport-Mesa area will be playing throughout the week, capped by Championship Sunday, which includes Gold Division title games.

Pilot Cup Director Kirk McIntosh has been the catalyst for the growth of the tournament.

By the numbers, most would think the Daily Pilot Cup includes all of Orange County. This year, there are 148 teams. That’s 244 games, which will include 30 elementary schools. Last year there were 130 teams.

The cup is known for bringing together schoolmates and gives schools an opportunity to win some championship hardware. Trophies are also a highlight on Sunday. The tournament also includes teenagers who are coaching for the first time.

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— Steve Virgen