Ryan Foley, NJ Youth Soccer (Photos: US Youth Soccer)

The 2022 US Youth Soccer National Championships have officially concluded at the renowned ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida. Representing New Jersey Youth Soccer on the last day of competition were Cedar Stars Academy Newark 18U Boys, who claimed the National Championship title, and FC Copa Academy 16U Girls, who claimed the finalist spot. Additionally, 12 NJYS players were named to their respective age groups' Best XI Team or awarded Golden Ball and Golden Glove honors.

The Cedar Stars Academy Newark side won the National Championship in a 5-4 overtime score line after 90 minutes of call-and-answer goals from their opponent. The ‘Jersey Boys’ went two-and-one in group play, advancing to the semifinals on tiebreakers, before securing a spot in the finals.

“I am extremely proud of the team’s effort and result this week. Earning the USYS National Championship title was an unbelievable experience and achievement,” said Kieran Patrick, Director of Coaching for Cedar Stars Academy North. “We are thankful to US Youth Soccer and NJ Youth Soccer for the opportunity to compete in such a prestigious event and for their support throughout the tournament. It is something that the players, parents and coaches will cherish forever.”

In addition, the 16UG FC Copa Academy team had a resounding tournament performance – remaining undefeated in regulation play the entire event. In fact, the squad defeated New Jersey competitor, Real Jersey FC, in the semifinal to secure their spot in the championship match. After a fierce battle in regulation, the FC Copa side forced overtime on their opponents in the scoreless title match. The side ultimately fell in Kicks from the Penalty Mark after ending overtime in a tie.

“We are extremely proud of the success New Jersey Youth Soccer teams had during the US Youth Soccer National Championships this year,” said Evan Dabby, NJYS Executive Director. “The event is a year-long culmination of effort for players and coaches at the league, state and regional levels to perform on the national stage.”

The action on ‘Championship Sunday’ was paired with the awarding of tournament honors including the Best XI, Golden Ball and Golden Glove. The Best XI and Golden Glove features a selection of players identified by opposing coaches throughout the event who had exceptional on-field performances, while the Golden Boot is awarded to the player with the most goals in the tournament. From the 15 NJYS teams competing in the event, 12 Garden State players were awarded post-tournament accolades.

Congratulations to the players receiving tournament honors in the 2022 US Youth Soccer National Championship Series!

13UB: Sebastian Lima - Cedar Stars Academy North Bergen [Best XI]

15UG: Tommi Valente - Cedar Stars Academy Wayne Dynamite [Best XI]

16UG: Ella Claire Cadigan - NJ Premier FC [Best XI]

16UG: Gabriella Freeman - FC Copa Academy Black [Best XI]

16UG: Katelyn Figueiredo - FC Copa Academy Black [Best XI]

16UG: Mia Abbey - RUSA FC Gold [Best XI]

16UG: Morgan Kotch - Real Jersey FC [Best XI, Golden Ball]

16UG: Sophia Miller  - Real Jersey FC [Best XI]

17UG: Jaci Gismondi - Real Jersey FC [Best XI]

18UB: Kwaku Agyabeng - Cedar Stars Academy North Newark [Best XI]

18UB: Marcilio Soares - Cedar Stars Academy North Newark [Golden Glove]

18UB: Ransford Gyan - Cedar Stars Academy North Newark [Best XI, Golden Ball]

Congratulations to the 2022 US Youth Soccer 18U Boys National Champion, Cedar Stars Academy Newark!

Congratulations to the 2022 US Youth Soccer 16U Girls National Finalist, FC Copa Academy!

NJ Youth Soccer also recognizes three New Jersey referees in Danielle Cornetta, Justin Saportio, and Cedric Cook for their exceptional officiating at the US Youth Soccer National Championships. Cornetta was assigned the prestigious 19UG final as the center referee, a match that was broadcast on ESPN+.

The entire slate of NJYS teams that competed in the 2022 USYS National Championships can be found here.

For teams looking to earn their place at the USYS National Championships, NJYS State Cup registration is now open for 11U-14U age groups playing this fall. Click here for more information.

To find out more information about New Jersey Youth Soccer or to contact us directly, please email [email protected]. Also make sure to follow us on social media: @NJYouthSoccer