Local Charities Win With Temecula United Soccer Club Charity Cup

TEMECULA, CA — It was a foggy morning in July when teams from across Southern California descended upon Galway Downs to play in the inaugural Temecula United Charity Cup. A tournament, born of a vision to donate not just to one club or one charity, but the chance for donations to the charity of choice by every flight winner.

"The Temecula United Charity Cup was attended by thousands across Southwest Riverside, San Diego County, Orange County and beyond," TU Club President Michael Richards said. "Galway Downs Soccer Complex was an ideal facility to host the event, accommodating players and families to watch each match in the most gorgeous setting around."

Winning teams were able to donate their entry fees to the charity of their choice, including such charities as:

• Angelman Syndrome Foundation
• Our Nicholas Foundation For Autism
• Rady Children's Hospital
• Rancho Damacitas
• St. Baldrick's Foundation for conquering childhood cancers
• St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital

Winning teams included the Empire Soccer Club, Temecula United Soccer Club, BYSC Corona, and others. Coaches and players were invited to select a charity of their choice.

Temecula United's own girls 2001 U17 team won their bracket, in honor of Chase Diorio, a Temecula boy affected with Angelman Syndrome.

"We had our guest of honor, Chase, come out to a practice after the tournament to see the trophy, and see what was being donated in his honor," Assistant Coach Victor Ramos said. Local business "SoCal Impressions" generously donated a couple Temecula United dri-fit shirts and a hoodie, and the girls gave him a gear bag and soccer ball, Ramos said, adding, "He was very excited!"

Be sure and sign your teams up for the next Temecula United Charity Cup, in June of 2018.

Winners sent in their trophy photos, many seen below.

Other teams reflected on charities from the Temecula area, or across the country, and all kids and coaches had the opportunity to learn about charities at the Temecula United Charity Cup - Charity Row.

The Riverside Girl's 2007 flight winners went to a vote, deciding on Temecula's own Rancho Damacitas Children & Family Services, which offers a respite for families suffering domestic abuse.

"The girls decided they wanted to give back to kids, so they chose to donate to the St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital," BYSC Corona coach Carla Bartz said. "We had a wonderful time at the Temecula United Charity Cup Tournament!"