EPSC 2008 Clinch New York Champions Cup Title, Cap Historic Season with Sixth Trophy
The Eleftheria Pancyprian Soccer Club (EPSC) 2008 team finished their remarkable 2024–2025 campaign with a statement victory, defeating DV7 4-0 in the final of the New York Champions Cup Gold U-17 Division on Sunday, June 22 at the SUSA Orlin & Cohen Sports Complex in Long Island. The New York Champions Cup is an elite, invitation-only annual event that rewards top teams from the CJSL and EDP with a high-level, competition, making it one of the most prestigious opportunities in youth soccer.
The cup final, played with intensity and skill, was led by 2009 standout Trevi Xhaka, who netted a brilliant brace including the opening goal. He was joined on the scoresheet by fellow 2009 talent Matthew Caballero and 2008 forward Issey Yoshida, whose contributions rounded out a commanding championship performance.
The road to the title included a hard-fought 2-1 semifinal win over Brooklyn United the day before, showcasing the team’s ability to hold strong under pressure. Participation in the Champions Cup was earned by topping the CJSL Spring 2025 First Division with a 7-0-1 record.
Led by Head Coach Josefina Velez-Tirado and Assistant Coach Tiago Tirado, the team delivered a season marked by consistency, tactical growth, and player development across every competition. The coaches’ commitment to elevating each player’s performance has been a cornerstone of the team’s identity and success.
“What we’re seeing from our 2008 team is the result of years of thoughtful development and commitment,” said Paul Kontonis, Zone 2 Director at Eleftheria Pancyprian Soccer Club. “Coach Josefina and Coach Tiago have built an environment where players thrive and grow. We’re incredibly proud of how this group represents our club and its values.”
The 2024–2025 season was nothing short of extraordinary for EPSC 2008:
Season Honors:
🏆 New York Champions Cup – Gold U-17 Division Champions
🏆 CJSL Winter League – U-17 Finals Champions
🏆 Manhattan Classic Showcase Tournament 2025 – U-17 Finals Champions
🏆 CJSL Spring First Division – 1st Place
🏆 EDP Spring Second Division – 1st Place
🏆 EDP Fall Second Division – 1st Place
🥈 Massapequa Memorial Day Tournament – U-17 Finalist
🔝 CJSL Fall First Division – 3rd Place
🏅 ENYYSA State Cup – U-17 Quarterfinalist
🏅 EDP Cup – U-17 Quarterfinalist
Over the course of the 2024–2025 season, EPSC 2008 played a total of 54 matches, finishing with an impressive record of 45 wins, 5 losses, and 4 draws. The team scored a remarkable 174 goals while conceding just 56, reflecting both their attacking power and defensive discipline. Their hard work and consistency across competitions were rewarded with six trophies, an extraordinary achievement that highlights the team’s dominance and growth throughout the year.
As the club looks ahead to the 2025–2026 season, EPSC is proud to share that Coach Josefina Velez-Tirado will continue her impact on player development by leading the EPSC 2012 team, bringing her championship experience and dedication to a new generation. Meanwhile, Coach Tiago Tirado will take over the EPSC 2010 team, continuing his rise within the club’s coaching ranks. Their continued presence within Eleftheria ensures the values and standards set this season will carry forward into the future.
