FC Bascome will kick off their USL Spring Pathway Classic campaign against Little Rock Rangers in their opening group A match in Tampa, Florida, today (2pm).

The local outfit are competing in the under-14 Premier A Division, which also includes Sueno FC and Birmingham Legion FC, at the tournament formerly known as the USL Academy Cup.

FC Bascome are being represented by a squad of under-13 players who will be keen to build on the local academy’s success at the event last year when they clinched the Legacy boys title with a flawless 4-0 record, scoring 15 goals without conceding.

Andrew Bascome, the FC Bascome president, cofounder and head coach, said his players are up for the challenge as they heading into the opening clash with Little Rock Rangers at the Tournament Sportsplex in Tampa Bay.

“For us, the USL Pathway Classic is not only a well-run and highly competitive tournament that we’re honoured to be invited to, it also acts as a reality check for our players and coaches,” Bascome said.

“It helps us measure progress and pinpoint areas that need further development. I was very impressed with how our Under-13s performed last year against strong competition. Winning the division earned us a place in the Premier Division this year. Our players understand the challenge ahead, and they’re ready to rise to it.”

Group B consists of Chicago City SC, Inter Connecticut FC, Inter Gainesville KF and FC Miami City.

The top teams from each group at the completion of the round robin stage will progress to the final to be played on the last of the tournament on Sunday.