Youth soccer honors avalanche victim with preseason event

FAIRHAVEN— In honor of the 11-year-old Rochester girl who died in an avalanche last year, Mariner Youth Soccer is dedicating its preseason jamboree to its former player.

The soccer club has renamed the annual event to the Forever 11 Preseason Jamboree, in memory of Madelyn Eitas. The name refers to her jersey number, which she proudly wore as a Mariner. 

Organizers said the yearly tradition will be a way to honor Madelyn’s legacy and ensure “her spirit continues to inspire players for years to come.”

The organization is also partnering with the Forever1111 Foundation, founded by Madelyn’s parents Becky and Greg Eitas to support communities their daughter was a part of.

The jamboree will be held August 29 and 30 this year at the Mariner Soccer Complex at 270 Huttleston Ave. in Fairhaven.

Youth soccer teams in the region are invited to participate, and each U8-U14 boys and girls team is guaranteed to play in three games. 

For more information or to register, visit www.marineryouthsoccer.com.