(1-30-09) The 2009 James Island Soccer Festival  finished up a great weekend of soccer in fitting style as the Boys U17 Black division went to a Penalty Kick Shootout between Sandhills Celtic SC (NC) and Johnston United SC (NC) with Celtic winning in the 8th round 3-2. It was the last match of the tournament. Ten of the (15) titles were won by different soccer clubs in the Carolinas. The following clubs won multiple titles: Sandhills Celtic SC (3), Triangle United, NC (2), Mt. Pleasant SC (2), and Bridge FA (2).

The James Island Youth Soccer Club would like to thank Chick-Fil-A, Lloyds Soccer, and James Island Physical Therapy for their support.

CLICK HERE FOR FINAL RESULTS

Quotes David Garrett, Director of One7 Sports Ministry, "All of the kids we work with are from poor inner city neighborhoods in East Charlotte. Our teams consist of players from Vietnam, Africa, Mexico and other countries from around the world. Most of the kids either cannot afford to play soccer at all or are failing in school. We have used the teams to form an After School program that is showing great results. We are helping rebuild the lives of kids that do not have much of a chance of making it without intervention." He continues, "the One7 teams play at a very competitive level. Our U15 team recently beat the #5 ranked team in the country, South Charlotte SC."

"We felt this was not only an opportunity for these kids to come to Charleston, but equally an opportunity for the local soccer players to play against teams that represent a truly international style" says Chuck Dennis, JIYSC President. JIYSC is allowing the One7 teams to play at no charge to them.  (See photo of U15 team below)