Mattapoisett's Mariner Youth Soccer is renaming its annual preseason soccer jamboree in honor of Maddie Eitas, who died in an avalanche in Utah in February, according to a news release.
The event will now be called the Forever 11 Preseason Jamboree, a tribute to the former player who wore the No. 11 jersey. Eitas was a cherished teammate and role model, according to the release.
Additionally, a permanent dedication called Maddie’s Circle has been established at the Mariner Soccer Complex. The space will feature a cobblestone exterior, picnic tables, a tree at the center and an oversized Adirondack chair, all in her memory.
Maddie’s Circle will be dedicated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Friday, followed by an alumni game featuring players who played alongside Eitas. The 2026 jamboree will take place Aug. 29-30 at the Mariner Soccer Complex and will welcome teams from across the region.
"We are deeply honored that this jamboree will be renamed in Madelyn’s memory, bringing teams together to play and enjoy the game she loved so much," Becky Eitas said, according to the release. "My girl would be flattered that this is all being done for her."
Maddie Eitas' legacy spans beyond the soccer field. Her passion, energy and dedication were evident every time she stepped onto the field, and her kindness and encouragement of others made her truly exceptional, according to the announcement.
"The Forever 11 Preseason Jamboree is our way of honoring Maddie’s legacy," Greg Visinho, director of soccer programming, said, according to the announcement. "She embodied everything that makes youth soccer meaningful. Her joy, competitiveness, friendship, teamwork, and attitude were one of a kind. This event will ensure her spirit continues to inspire players for years to come."
The Forever 11 Preseason Jamboree celebrates not only the sport Maddie loved, but also the joy, community and friendships she helped cultivate. Each year, as teams gather to begin their fall season, the event will serve as a reminder of Maddie’s lasting mark on everyone who knew her, according to the announcement.
Mariner Youth Soccer has partnered with the Forever1111 Foundation, created by Becky and Greg Eitas, to strengthen the communities Maddie loved and stand as a lasting tribute to her kindness, courage and vibrant spirit. The foundation's mission aligns with the values and purpose of the Forever 11 Preseason Jamboree.
The Forever 11 Preseason Jamboree will feature divisions for U8-U14 boys and girls, with all teams guaranteed three games. Youth soccer teams from across the region are invited to participate.
For more information or to register, teams can visit www.marineryouthsoccer.com or contact Mariner Youth Soccer directly.
This story was created by Jared Greenleaf ( [email protected] ) with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing, and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical conduct.
This article originally appeared on The Herald News: Mariner Youth Soccer league to honor late player Maddie Eitas