HAVERFORD, Pa. – Haverford College rising sophomore Matthew Clausen recently scored the game-winning goal for his club soccer team, PDA Harkes (N.J.), leading his team to United States Youth Soccer's Region One Championship. Clausen's goal was the lone tally of the day in his team's 1-0 victory.
With that latest victory, Clausen's squad has qualified to compete in the United States Youth Soccer National Championship. The national championship tournament is scheduled for July 22-26. PDA Harkes advanced from region one, which is made up of the clubs in the Northeastern region of the United States. Three other regions, Far West, Midwest and South, will round out the field at the national tournament.
The final site will be held at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Potomac, Md. The four regional winners will be competing for the James P. McGuire Cup. This trophy has been awarded annually since 1935, making it the oldest trophy in American youth sports.
Clausen appeared in 14 matches during his first season at Haverford College, making eight starts. He scored his first collegiate goal against Dickinson. He later added Haverford's two goals in the 2-1 victory on the road against Ursinus.
A complete schedule for the 2014 US Youth Soccer Championships is available here.