A Return to the Wasatch Back
The Park City Extreme Cup is back for its 23rd edition, bringing together 463 teams that span every age division from U3 to U19. Matches are being played across the Wasatch Back, with games scheduled in Park City, Heber, Oakley and Kamas, and the tournament will run through Saturday.
Beyond the on‑field action, the event is a major financial boost for the local soccer community. Organizers say the tournament funnels a six‑figure sum into the Park City Soccer Club’s scholarship fund, a resource that has helped more than 100 young athletes pursue their education and training.
Coaches and Players in Action
Among the coaches on the sidelines is Anthony DiCicco, the club’s general manager, who balances his administrative duties with hands‑on work on the U13 and U17 girls squads. The U17 girls team fell to an Idaho side on Friday morning, a result that did not dampen the spirits of players like Stella Arend, who said she was still thrilled to be part of the weekend’s atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the Vipers FC from Ogden celebrated a victory and took advantage of the hotel’s amenities, swapping post‑match recovery for a dip in the pool with teammates. Eight‑year‑old Mika Martinez, who netted a goal for his City SC Utah South U9 side in an 8‑2 win, spoke of his ambition to turn professional and praised the tournament’s organization.
Yarhtib Martinez, also a participant, highlighted the broader significance of community‑run events: they give children a chance to compete, stay active and feel connected to a larger network of families and volunteers. As the final day approaches, the tournament’s organizers expect the Wasatch Back to remain buzzing with families, coaches and the shared enthusiasm that has defined the competition for more than two decades.