From the time their flights landed to the last laugh shared in the dorms, Helenites SC and Massey Soccer Academy made their time at the 2025 Target USA Cup one to remember. It was a week filled with world-class soccer, off-field adventures, and unforgettable moments that deepened bonds and broadened horizons.
“Off the field we had some great experiences: going ice skating, visiting Como Park Zoo and watching an MLS game (Minnesota United FC vs Los Angeles FC),” said Raejae Joseph, president of Helenites SC. “We traded pins with teams from all over the world and, most importantly, the kids had fun.”
The pin trading tradition became a favorite among players, with U12 standout Abdullah Djabali collecting over 30 pins from teams across the globe. “Some of our boys were very serious with their pin trading,” Joseph smiled, highlighting just how much these small exchanges meant in building global connections.
For U12 player Kenai Sexius, the trip marked a personal milestone. “It was a very fun experience overall. Off the field I hung out with my teammates and went to a professional soccer game. Other days we just hung out in the dorms. On the field it was an amazing experience for me because it was my first trip with the team, and we got the opportunity to play some really good teams.”
Making memories off the pitch brought much-needed balance to this year’s tough competition. U17 athlete Yannic Elizee noted a noticeable jump in the intensity and skill of their opponents. “This year the competition definitely got harder. The teams were way more organized and composed on the ball. The tackles and match speed were also higher this year compared to last. Honestly, this year helped me improve my physicality and speed of play more than anything. Off the pitch I enjoyed this year. I would have wished to have the opening ceremony (canceled due to weather), but overall, Minnesota was definitely a great experience.”
Despite the absence of some expected festivities, there was no shortage of special moments. U12 Girls player Sarai Murphy walked onto the pitch hand-in-hand with the captain of Minnesota United FC before a packed MLS crowd — an honor that will live in her heart for years to come. “I know that was an unforgettable experience for her,” said Joseph.
Each athlete returned home with growth, perspective and a stronger sense of belonging on and off the field. U17 player Khevin Murrain captured the heart of the trip in just a few words: “I feel like it brought the team together.”
U15 player Areesa St. Croix received the unique opportunity to forge bonds that span the globe when she was invited to play as a guest for Brumunddal Football, a team visiting from Norway. “My experience at the USA Cup was exciting. Off the field, I got to explore a new state, meet new people, and make a lot of memories. On the field I got to learn the game more, face different players, and have fun. I enjoyed playing for Brumunddal Football, a team from Norway. They were all extremely nice and welcoming. They made me feel like I knew them for years and gave me the chance to play with them as a guest player in the USA Cup. It was fun to meet new people and adjust to different playing styles. I can’t wait to have this opportunity again.”
Helenites SC and Massey SA are building more than teams. They’re building a family — one game, one pin, and one unforgettable memory at a time.
For more information on these clubs and ways to support their mission, contact Raejae Joseph (Helenites SC, St. Croix) at helenitessc@gmail.com and Dale Richards (Massey SA, St. Thomas) at 340-244-4045.
