WHY SACRAMENTO
As the capital city to the fifth largest economy in the world, Sacramento was on the global stage long before the Homeless World Cup. Sacramento is considered one of the most diverse cities in the U.S., and as such, most of its residents either play or watch soccer. It is home to one of the largest youth soccer communities, WPSL Champions California Storm and 2014 USL Championship Club Sacramento Republic FC. You could say it should be called Soccermento.
Its climate, geographic location near three international airports and state-of-the art facilities has allowed Sacramento to host sporting events ranging from Ironman to World’s Strongest Man to U.S. Track and Field Olympic Trials.
But the biggest reason is the incredible support from Sacramento State, regional leaders, businesses and volunteers who advocated to host the Homeless World Cup since 2019. Sacramento State will be able to provide a level of hospitality, belonging and engagement for athletes like no previous tournament, including accommodations in student housing and access to their world class facilities. Nearly 300 volunteers have signed up to participate and donate their time. They are joined by civic and business leaders that are funding the costs that go into hosting the event. All of which is led under the host organization, Street Soccer USA.
The goal is to create awareness, healing and hope for a global crisis that hits too close to home in Sacramento. By showing how strong, courageous and resilient these athletes are that are competing in the Homeless World Cup, we may also realize those same qualities can be found in each one of us. We play for more.
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