The final editions of the younger ages of State Cup concluded this past weekend as 35 different teams in the U11/U12 State and Premier divisions claimed titles at Davis Legacy Soccer Complex.

In a competition that started all the way back in August, Saturday and Sunday’s action was the culmination of solid runs for several teams involved, with the weekend beginning with just the final four teams in each division alive.

“Reaching this stage is a real accomplishment and something each of the teams and players should be proud of,” said U9-U12 State Cup Coordinator John Stoppelmann. “This past weekend was a true celebration of the best that youth soccer has to offer.”

In the State Division, the highest level of play that NorCal offers, ECFC Salinas, Marin FC, MVLA, and San Juan SC all claimed titles. Meanwhile, two CV Futbol Academy teams, Burlingame SC, and Placer United all finished as runners-up.

Each of the eight finalists qualified for the California Cup, which pits the State Cup winners from NorCal Premier Soccer against those from SOCAL Soccer League each year. This year’s California Cup is set to take place March 28 and 29.

The State Cup began last August with each team playing three group stage matches before teams were then re-seeded for the knockout rounds based on their performance.

Most teams then entered the elimination rounds in either the round of 32 or round of 16, meaning that it took at least four straight victories for a squad to claim their division’s title.

“As we wrap up the U11–U12 top divisions, we want to thank every player, coach, and family for contributing to a positive and supportive environment,” Stoppelmann said. “These divisions showcased not only strong soccer but strong character, and we appreciate the spirit each team brought to the field.”

Overall, more than 1,000 teams participated in the U11/U12 State Cup this season, a record number for what is already the largest competition of its kind in the country.

For more information about the NorCal State Cup, click here.