KAHULUI — The 22nd edition of the Hawaii Cup Invitational youth soccer tournament will kick off a four-day run tomorrow, with the majority of matches scheduled for Keopuolani Park.

This year's event will feature 53 teams — including 34 in the girls' division — with eight entries from California and another 10 from the Neighbor Islands, according to tournament director Mike Victorino.

''I'm frankly surprised and happy to get so many visiting teams this year - both from the Mainland and around the state - considering the current cost of travel,'' Victorino said to The Maui News. ''I am concerned about the impact of travel costs in future years.''

The one notable difference in this year's tournament is that the event will be hosted by the Maui United Soccer Club, which, Victorino said ''will assist in the compilation of results and standings, publicity, fields, refereeing, administration and many other areas associated with the tournament.''

Victorino also was thankful for the assistance and support of Maui County, "particularly the parks and recreation department, in preparing the fields for the event.

Two of the local teams — Maui United's girls and boys under-14 squads — participated in the recent U.S. Youth Soccer Far West Regional tournament on O'ahu.

Starting Thursday on O'ahu is the AYSO National Games.