Kontonis Esperanza Cup Carrying a Vision Forward Through Soccer
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kontonis Esperanza Cup
One City. Three Leagues. One Legacy.
Flushing, NY — February 1, 2026
The Big Apple Youth Soccer League (BAYSL), Metro Kids Youth Soccer League (MYSL), and the Cosmopolitan Junior Soccer League (CJSL) are proud to announce the inaugural Kontonis Esperanza Cup, a co-hosted interleague youth soccer competition bringing together select teams from across New York City.
The Kontonis Esperanza Cup will be held on Saturday, March 8, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Flushing Field #8, located at 131-40 Fowler Avenue, Flushing, NY 11355.
This one-day event will feature select Division 2 teams for the 2025 / 2026 season in the U11, U12, and U13 age groups, representing BAYSL, MYSL, and CJSL. Designed as a pre-season interleague competition, the Cup provides a competitive environment ahead of the Spring season while encouraging collaboration and shared standards across leagues.
More than just a competition, the Kontonis Esperanza Cup is deeply rooted in purpose and legacy.
“The Kontonis Esperanza Cup was named by the late Paul Kontonis, whose vision as President of CJSL was rooted in unity, opportunity, and community. He believed deeply that The Beautiful Game can unite leagues and communities across New York City. This competition proudly carries forward his passion and his hope,” said Jonathan Puma, Second Vice President of CJSL.
That vision of unity is echoed across all participating leagues.
“I would like to thank the gentlemen organizing this tournament and for inviting Metrokids YSL. This competition honors Kontonis—a father, brother, and friend who dedicated himself to the youth as a soccer coach. Paul envisioned a Champions’ Championship that would unite our leagues. We welcome this new competition in his honor and are confident it will grow year after year with the support of our affiliated leagues. Good luck, champions!” said Cesar Juca, President of MYSL.
From the perspective of BAYSL, the event represents both collaboration and shared purpose.
“Big Apple Youth Soccer League (B.A.Y.S.L.) is honored to be invited to participate in the Kontonis Esperanza Cup. We are excited to join fellow leagues in celebrating youth soccer through sportsmanship, collaboration, and meaningful competition, and we look forward to building lasting connections on and off the field,” said Carlos Vergara, President of BAYSL.
While the Kontonis Esperanza Cup launches at the Division 2 level, the long-term objective is to expand in future seasons to include additional age groups and participation within the Girls City program, continuing to create opportunities across leagues.
There is no additional team registration fee for participation. The Kontonis Esperanza Cup is co-hosted by BAYSL, MYSL, and CJSL as a competitive interleague event held prior to the kickoff of the 2025 / 2026 Spring season.
About the Leagues
Big Apple Youth Soccer League (BAYSL)
Founded in 1997, BAYSL provides competitive youth soccer opportunities throughout New York City, emphasizing access, sportsmanship, and player development. BAYSL is affiliated with the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association.
Metro Kids Youth Soccer League (MYSL)
Founded in 1998, MYSL offers year-round youth soccer programming and league competition focused on player development, teamwork, and community engagement. MYSL is affiliated with the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association and U.S. Soccer.
Cosmopolitan Junior Soccer League (CJSL)
Founded in 1933, CJSL is one of New York City’s oldest and most respected youth soccer leagues, serving clubs across the five boroughs. CJSL provides structured competition focused on development, competitive balance, and community, and is affiliated with the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association and U.S. Youth Soccer.
One city. Three leagues. One legacy.
