The 2013 Empire State Cup tournament is set to return to the Syracuse area on August 1-4. The tournament which was created to replace the lacrosse games in the annual Empire State Games, features play between the same six regions that used to play as part of the old ESG tournament.

Each region has a staff of up to three coaches and teams can practice together a maximum of three times before the start of the games.

"Due to this years late announcement, and in an effort to accommodate as many players and coaches as possible, the Cup has decided, in order to be eligible for consideration for selection in the games, players must first register online and then make either one of the tryouts dates or participate in the first practice," stated a press release from the coordinators.

Orchard Park Head Coach Gene Tundo has been selected to head the Western Team. He will be assisted by his son, Gene Tundo Jr. and Canisius High School Head Coach Joe Smith.

The Western Region tryout dates have not yet been announced, but on-line registration is required before tryouts. More information is available at the ESC web site.