On July 14, LAFC Goalkeeper, Tyler Miller, hosted his second annual beach soccer tournament and fundraiser benefiting Austen Everett Foundation.
The day started with the sun rising over the pier as LAFC set up activities/games and 2 beach soccer courts in the sand. As AEF captains arrived, they were given swag bags filled with Talking Rain to stay refreshed, Kind bars and Popcorners to stay fueled, FUNKO figures to play with, and LAFC gear (jersey, soccer ball and shirts for siblings) to show their LAFC pride.
Miller opened up the event with a speech about how cancer has impacted him and his family and what this event means to him. He says it has become his passion to put on this tournament.
“Out of my whole year with soccer, this means more than that” – Tyler Miller
Miller’s teammates Dejan Jakovic, Tristan Blackmon and Walker Zimmerman joined him and helped in many ways throughout the day. All proceeds from tournament registration benefitted AEF but Miller and his teammates took it one step further. Each teammate donated autographed items for a silent auction which also benefitted AEF. Zimmerman emphasized the importance of community. He says it is part of LAFC’s DNA.
Throughout the day, Miller rotated between coaching, interviews and playing with the AEF captains. Miller said he looked forward to this event the entire year. He loves seeing everyone come out, having a good time and supporting the cause. He concluded by saying the most meaningful part is seeing the kids with smiles on their faces and enjoying the experience. At the end of the tournament, each captain received a medal for their participation.
