By: Matt Boyer

Yuma, AZ - After hosting the El Torro Bowl this past December, could Yuma be getting ready to host its next major sporting event? According to Yuma resident Lester Favish, a major soccer tournament could be here as soon as mid-March.

"Not many people know how good the level of soccer talent is here in Yuma," Favish said. "We want to bring soccer to the forefront, and really make this event big."

Favish is part of a promotional group looking to bring international soccer to Yuma. The proposed plan would bring youth national teams from Mexico, Honduras, and Argentina to compete in tournament against local club teams. Favish discussed his plan Monday night with members of the Yuma Visitors Bureau, the Yuma Chamber of Commerce, and local club soccer coaches. Issues discussed were the feasability of hosting such an event with only a month to prepare, as well as which sites/teams would be most likely to participate.

As of this publication, nothing has been finalized and no official invites have been extended to any teams.

"An event like this would be great exposure for kids here," Favish said. "It would open up scholarships and opportunities to play after high school."