The Ascension Football Group is gearing up for its inaugural invitational, set to feature appearances by the sons of Argentine football icon Lionel Messi and legendary Uruguayan footballer Luis Suárez, marking a valuable opportunity for local and international player connection.
The local football organisation, owned by former Cayman youth national football player Ethan Rivers, will hold the Ascension Football Group Invitational from 30 Jan. to 1 Feb. at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex.
“What makes this truly historic is that players like Thiago Messi, Lionel Messi’s son, and Benjamin Suárez, Luis Suárez’s son, will be in Cayman competing in [the Invitational] with Inter Miami,” said Rivers.
He added, “It’s an incredible opportunity for Caymanian players to test themselves against world-class talent and put Cayman on the global football map.”
During the three-day event, matches are set for 6:30pm and 8pm each day, featuring a lineup of youth talent including Inter Miami U14, New York Red Bulls U14, Cavaliers U14 of Jamaica and a Cayman National U15 side.
“The invitational was created to elevate both local Caymanian and international talent by providing a world-class platform rooted in opportunity, exposure, and development. The event brings elite competition to Cayman while connecting standout players with professional clubs, collegiate programs, and global football networks,” said Rivers.
“The event’s significance lies in showcasing Cayman as a legitimate football destination and creating a clear pathway for players to be seen, evaluated, and advanced within the global game, all under professional standards that mirror top international environments,” he added.
Developed in collaboration with the West Bay Sports Foundation, the invitational also provides a platform for participants to be scouted.
“Ascension Football Group has secured the opportunity for a minimum of four local and Caribbean-wide players taking part in the Invitational to be sent on a training opportunity with one of the competing or scouting clubs in attendance, including Inter Miami, New York Red Bulls, Nashville SC, and Atlanta United,” Rivers said.
“Beyond these spots, Ascension provides a direct pathway for other impressive local players who compete in the tournament to also receive opportunities with the competing and scouting clubs present as well as our wider professional club and college network,” he added.
Tickets can be purchased directly at Ascensionfootballgroup.com.
