CLUB ANNOUNCEMENT: Sunflower State FC (SSFC) has acquired Elite Footballers Tournament (EFT) in a merger that will allow the two organizations to expand their impact in the Kansas City community and offer more opportunities for players of all backgrounds to advance in their playing careers.

SSFC President, Joey Lipoff: “As we mature as an organization, we felt that this partnership was important for expanding our involvement in the community, supporting player initiatives, and recruitment. The mission of both organizations align for the same goal.”

EFT and SSFC pride themselves on being a platform for players to make the jump from high school soccer to the collegiate level, collegiate to pro, and academy directly to the professional game. Both organizations aim to support players in their journey through offering merit-based competition and distancing themselves from the pay-to-play model, ensuring that financial obligations are not a hindrance for any player.

EFT President, Max Roberts: “As the landscape of US Soccer continues evolving, we felt this was the right time to ensure the longevity of EFT’s mission of closing the pay-to-play gap in US Soccer. Sunflower State FC’s recent promotion to USL 2 is a great sign that our aligned values will translate to continued growth and we’re confident that our partnership will be positive for the Kansas City community. Thank you to our Tournament Director Bashir Khalil, Elyes Ellouz, and everyone that has supported the journey of EFT to this point.”