Team Chicago Academy-Palmeiras has gotten through the early stages of the newly developed State Premiership Division with great success. Palmeiras currently sits atop the standings of the U18 Premiership Division through the first couple of games with an undefeated start.

Palmeiras started off the inaugural premiership campaign with a draw against a very talented Southwest SC team, 3-3. David Sanchez had a fantastic hat-trick in a very wind-aided first game with assists from Matt Coley, Chris Freeman and Matt Bayna. In the second game of the league, Palmeiras was able to top Linces Tamayo 2-1 off another goal from David Sanchez and a fantastic strike from 35 yards out from Keath Levitt. The new league has been a tremendous opportunity for Palmeiras to get exposure top quality talent from throughout Illinois as they prepare for their State Cup run next week.

The Illinois Youth Soccer State Premiership Division (SPD) is a state-run competitive division for premier teams registered with Illinois Youth Soccer member competitive leagues (IYSA Member League). This elite competition was designed to reduce costs and travel expenses for elite teams and allow the best teams in Illinois an opportunity to compete against the other top teams in the state while meeting the requirements for State Cup and Midwest Regional League (MRL).