By Jim Brockman
BRADENTON, Fla. – It’s insufficient to say Emilio Ycaza’s love of soccer comes naturally.
It’s deeper than that. More like an inherent, genetic bond that only comes from a family steeped in the game.
MORE TOP PLAYERS: Day 1 | Day 2
MORE COVERAGE: Day 1 Recap | Day 2 Recap | Day 3 Recap
The resident of Pinellas Park, Fla., lives just up the road about 45 minutes north of the IMG Academy, where he has played against some of the nation’s best for the past three days as a member of the VSI Pinellas U17 team based in St. Petersburg.
Ycaza’s father Ricardo grew up playing soccer in Ecuador, where Emilio still spends much of his summers playing the game. In fact, Ricardo Ycaza still plays in soccer leagues in his 50s.
“It’s just in the blood,” Emilio explained.
“My father just won’t quit. As soon as I could walk he threw me on the field.”
VSI Pinellas defeated Tallahassee United U17, 3-2, on Sunday, the third and final day of competition at the IMG Cup – College Showcase held on the 11 soccer fields at the massive sports complex.
“This has really been good preparation for State Cup, especially since the team we just played (Tallahassee), we’ll see them later,” Emilio Ycaza said. “This tournament had a really good intensity. It’s a good experience. It’s always a joy to play here.”
The junior who also plays for St. Petersburg Catholic High was just one of approximately 1,000 elite soccer players at the three-day tournament.
Here’s a look at the rest of some of Sunday’s best:
