Teams representing eight regions of the Los Angeles Church participated in this year\'s soccer tournament, which like previous years proved to be a great time of fellowship, fun and athletic competition. The North Region team was crowned the champion after beating both the title defender and the tournament favorite.

The annual soccer tournament, called the Copa de la Vida, began in 1999 as a Latino Ministry event. Since then, the tournament has grown to become a friendly competition between teams representing the different LA regions. This year\'s tournament proved to be the most competitive to date. (See Slide Show Here) 

The Central, East, Orange County, South, Metro Heights, Inland Empire and North Region all fielded a team. The tournament was held on two separate dates. The preliminary rounds were held on June 2 at Cal Poly Pomona. The final round was on June 16. Previous champions include Central (2001-2003), East (2004) and Orange County (2005-2006). This year saw the resurgence of two lower-seeded teams, one of which ended up with the championship. The Inland Empire had a great tournament showing and just missed going to the semi-final round in a penalty shoot-out with the South Region.

The North region made it as a top-four team for the very first time and then went on to defeat the defending champions, Orange County, in the semi-finals. The North Region team then faced the tournament favorite East Region in the championship game. That game was decided on a goal in extra time scored by Geo Garces, thus sealing the first-ever championship for the upstart North Region team. Congratulations to the North Region for a great tournament and to every team and disciple that participated in this great event. As many teams were fond to say, \see you next year.\