UTICA, N.Y. - Utica City FC is giving local soccer players the chance to return to the pitch in a safe environment.

The team has announced it will host the first event of the new "City Cup Soccer Series" on Labor Day weekend.

The event will be held at CNY Family Sports Centre in Syracuse, and will include boys and girls divisions from 2012 birth year through high school varsity age level.

The City Cup begins on Saturday, Sept. 5 with seven-on-seven style games, and continue through Sunday and Monday, Sept. 6 & 7 with nine-on-nine style games, both including a goalkeeper.

Registered teams will be sorted into groups within their age division, with efforts being made to level competition in each group.

All teams will be guaranteed four 30-minute matches, with the top two teams in each division playing in a final match.

According to UCFC, the event should last between three and 3.5 hours for each team.

Unlike interscholastic competition, youth and recreational "intramural" sports are permitted in the latest state coronavirus guidance.

Utica City FC said that health and safety procedures will be in place at the event.

For more information on the City Cup and team registration, visit uticacityfc.com/city-cup.