The Classic features top student athletes from high schools all across the state. Through a rigorous screening process, over 70 outstanding young men and women are selected to play in the annual competition. In addition to having been selected as All-State and All-Conference high school players in Class AA or A, they have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership, and citizenship. The Classic also brings together a talented coaching staff from around the state to guide the teams and assure top-level competition.

Players and coaches arrive at Carroll College on July 24 to begin practices and a variety of other activities leading up to the games. The high school players host aspiring young soccer all-stars in a free clinic for children ages 5 to 12 on Friday before the tournament. The event is especially popular with area youth, with close to 200 young players typically participating.

The Soccer Classic is a benefit for Shodair Children's Hospital and the important work it does for children and adolescents from communities throughout the state. Shodair is a vital resource for young Montanans with struggling mental health challenges, and the state's medical genetics program. Last year, the hospital provided over $3.5 million dollars in uncompensated care for at-risk children and youth from around the state.

The hospital is proud to offer this opportunity for gifted youth to pair athleticism with citizenship in an event where some of Montana's best young athletes help some of its neediest children. Financial support generated from events like the Soccer Classic and the Children's Miracle Network Telethon help assure that critically-needed services remain available for young Montanans in need of help.

To learn more about the Shodair Soccer Classic, contact the hospital at 1-800-447-6614 or (406) 444-7548, or e-mail bdennehy@shodair.org.