Utah Royals

The Utah Royals FC Elite Development Program (EDP) 8v8 Invitational is designed to provide an unforgettable professional soccer experience while accelerating player development.

Our vision is to connect the youth soccer community with the Utah Royals FC by giving every participating player the opportunity to compete in a championship environment, play on the same field as the professionals, and experience a Utah Royals FC match. The tournament also introduces an innovative 8v8 format designed to encourage attacking soccer, quick transitions, creativity, and player decision-making.

Please direct all questions to Aaron Heffernan at aheffernan@rsl.com

Registration & Eligibility

Maximum roster size: 22 players

Players may only compete for one team within the same age group

All participating clubs must complete the tournament waiver and Code of Conduct prior to competition

Every registered player (max 22) and staff member (max 5) will receive one ticket to the Utah Royals FC match on October 17, 2026

Competition Format

8v8 (7 Field Players + 1 Goalkeeper)

Three guaranteed matches

Group play followed by either a semifinal and Championship match or consolation match

Tournament Dates

October 16, 2026

Group Play

October 17, 2026

Consolation Matches
Semifinals
Championship Matches

Match Format

Two 20-minute halves

Five-minute halftime

Running clock

Dual referees

Tournament Committee reserves the right to shorten match lengths due to weather or scheduling delays.

Laws of the Game

Unlimited substitutions with referee approval during any stoppage

Goalkeeper box dimensions: 16 yards long × 46 yards wide (full field width)

Goal kicks may be taken from anywhere inside the goalkeeper box

Offside is enforced only inside the goalkeeper box

Kickoffs begin from the halfway line, with opponents remaining in their defensive half until the ball is in play

Penalty kicks will be taken from 12 yards spot. All players, except the kicker and goalkeeper, must remain outside the goalkeeper box until the ball is in play

All free kicks (except penalty kicks) require opponents to remain at least 10 yards from the ball

Goal size: 8 feet × 24 feet

The Utah Royals FC EDP Invitational is built to provide players with an experience that extends beyond the game itself.

Championship match played under the stadium lights following the Utah Royals FC match.

Every participating player receives a ticket to attend the Utah Royals FC match.

Championship trophy presentation by Utah Royals FC players or coaches.

Professional team photos taken on the stadium field.

Opportunity for young athletes to compete on the same pitch as the professionals while experiencing a true championship atmosphere.

Our goal is to inspire the next generation of players by creating a memorable event that connects youth soccer with the professional game and showcases the pathway available through the Utah Royals FC.

Please direct all questions to Aaron Heffernan at aheffernan@rsl.com.