World Cup Affected by COVID-19: Teams Unite at 49ers Field to Continue Annual Union College Soccer Tradition

The annual World cup event, hosted by Union College’s International Club, is often looked forward to by soccer fans (and anyone who simply loves good food). Students and faculty get to sign-up to play against each other as representatives of North America, Africa, South America or Euro-Asia. This year COVID-19 provided extra challenges, and the teams almost didn't get to play, but due to some last minute changes, says Kevin Jeune, an International Club Officer, and a decision by Union’s COVID-19 team, they were able to play each other as long as everyone wore masks. As a result, team sign-ups were last minute, with some players signing up the night of the event. 

Despite these challenges, International Club did a fantastic job of modifying the different aspects of the event to be appropriate for the pandemic environment. Held outdoors, everyone had to get their temperature taken at the gate of 49ers Field before being allowed to enter the event. In lieu of tokens and long lines waiting for a limited amount of food, there was delicious Chinese and Mexican food prepackaged in take-out trays, which totally eliminated frustrating lines. There was plenty of food for everyone, with seconds highly encouraged, possibly due to attendance being much lower than in previous years. 

After a series of matches, North America won first place, breaking Africa’s five year winning streak, reported Jeune. However, Africa wasn’t far behind, landing second place, followed by South America in third place, and Euro-Asia in fourth place. Altogether, the International Club did a great job of organizing a difficult event under the current circumstances.

Jade Covel is a Senior

Religion Major from

Topeka, Kansas