Kirk Kaplan, long time coach for the Massapequa Soccer Club, was selected by Sports Challenge International to coach a team representing the US in the Gothia Cup. The Gothia Cup which was held in Gotenburg, Sweden, July 11-19, is known as the World Youth Cup. There were over 1,000 teams representing more than 50 countries that participated in the tournament.

The U-19 boys team, whose members came from various locations throughout Long Island, upstate NY and New Jersey, was one of only a handful of teams representing the US that made it to the semi-finals. The team lost to a team from Germany in a shoot-out. The competition was fierce and the team held its own throughout the tournament.

Highlights of the nine day trip included opening ceremonies, which were modeled after the Olympic Games; the coache's reception, where coaches from 50 nations came together to share their enthusiasm and love for soccer; and meeting people from all over the world. In addition, coaches and players had the opportunity to experience the Swedish culture, the Northern lights, and to take advantage of sight-seeing tours and excursions.

Kirk was accompanied and assisted by his wife, Nancy. The experience of representing the US in a sporting event of this magnitude is one Kirk and Nancy Kaplan will remember for years to come.