KIX Academy is heading to Plantation, Florida, today for the 37th annual Plantation Thanksgiving Classic.

The under-9 and under-12 boys teams, entering their 4th year, eagerly anticipate the challenge in the tournament’s bronze division. Today, the u9s face off against Weston FC u9 Blue at 2:30pm, while the u12s take on Cape City FC at 3:45pm. On Saturday, matchups include the u9s against West Pines United 2015 Elite and Greater Boca YSA 2015-2016 Pre-Academy, and the u12s against Greater Boca YSA 2012 Pre-Academy and Miami Stars Soccer 2012.

With the potential for semifinals and finals on Sunday, head coach Jared Higgs emphasizes developmental goals in this first international outing. “This trip will really tell us where we are at and where we need to improve.”

Highlighting the significance of exposure, Higgs said: “The most important thing is the exposure. We want the players to have the best opportunities even at a young age.”

Despite facing local Bahamian u11 club teams before the tournament, the focus remains on improvement. Acknowledging the support from parents and sponsors like Doctors Hospital, Mexicaba, and Bahamas Wholesale Agencies, coach Higgs expresses gratitude. “Sponsors are crucial because they relieve a huge burden from the parents and the programme itself,” he says. “We believe in Bahamian excellence at Kix Academy, and are extremely grateful for the sponsors who see the vision and support us in reaching our goals.”