Get Smart About Sunscreen

One of the great things about soccer is that it gets us outdoors. We all know that some sun is good for us and gives us an important dose of Vitamin D3. However, as the summer months approach it is good to educate ourselves a bit more about ways to protect ourselves, our families, and our student athletes from the damaging effects of too much sun. Research continues to point to the fact that skin cancer is on the rise. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer in an article for Time.com, "up to 95% of malignant melanomas are caused by excessive sun damage." The American Cancer Society states, 1 in 3 cancers diagnosed worldwide is a skin cancer. So, what can we do to prevent too much exposure to the sun?

1. Avoid peak sun hours when possible
The best way to avoid sun damage is to use common sense practices regarding your outdoor activities this summer. Typically, the sun is strongest and most damaging from 10AM to 2PM. It's best to avoid being outdoors for extended periods during these hours.

2. Avoid sunscreens that contain oxybenzone
The consumer watchdog group The Environmental Working Group (EWG) recommends avoiding a chemical called oxybenzone, which is widely used in the majority of sunscreen brands. EWG has listed this sunscreen ingredient as potentially affecting cellular function and causing organ system toxicity. However, there is some controversy about this as the Academy of Dermatology...
How to Plan a Soccer Tour to Costa Rica
Although organizing an international trip for your soccer team can seem overwhelming, by planning ahead and following these few suggestions, you'll find that it is easier that you might have expected. Ready? First off, you need to be able to explain the benefits of an international soccer tour to your players, their parents, and your club or school's administration.  In taking a soccer trip, your players will build team unity...


Is the Competition Good Enough for my Team?

Finding the right level of competition for your soccer team is very important when planning an international soccer tour. On the one hand, you want the players to be challenged and pushed to grow and learn against top quality opponents.  On the other hand, you don't want them to be frustrated because the level of competition is either too weak or too strong for your team. Finding that right balance is key...



Fundraising Ideas for your Soccer Tour

Few things will inspire your team more than a trip to a foreign country like Costa Rica. They will learn a new culture, play against local teams, explore an exotic location, and most likely return with great stories and memories that will last a lifetime! However, raising the proper funds for 20 or 30 people to take an international soccer tour can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are a lot of ways in which to get the funding for your trip to Costa Rica. Here are some of the best ideas we've heard for team fundraisers:



What our tours include:

International friendly games
Hotel accommodations
3 meals daily
Round-trip airfare
Local transportation
Full-time guide 
Guided sightseeing