It may not be as big as FIFA’s version, but the Saskatoon World Cup soccer tournament brought together 1,200 of the city’s finest players.
“It’s based on your heritage, so each team is allowed five imports. But other than that you have to be born from that country, your parents have to be born from that country or grandparents,” says tournament organizer Julio Diaz.
The tournament consists of 28 men’s teams, 12 youth teams (U13/U15), six women’s teams and master’s teams (35+ years old).
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The seventh annual tournament is a celebration of diversity and culture, as well as an opportunity for local players to showcase their talents.
“The idea was to bring communities together for the love of soccer. Every year is getting more and more competitive so people are bringing in players from different parts of the country like Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario,” said Diaz.
Off the field, there’s a sense of camaraderie for most of the players, but once the whistle blows it’s each country for themselves and pride is on the line.
“No money, just pride. You’re playing for your country so you are playing for pride,” said Diaz.
Fitzroy Christey moved to Saskatoon from Toronto a year ago and was shocked at the high level of play here in the Prairies.
“It’s my first time being here, but the quality of soccer is really good. It’s high level and all of the players are very good,” said the Romanian player.
Dhiago Prado moved to Saskatoon from Brazil in 2006 and has been competing in the tournament since it started. He’s impressed by how the competition and fans keep on getting more intense each year.
“If you want to feel a little bit of your country, from the original place you’re from, this is a good place to be,” said Prado.
For him, coming to the tournament is a good way to show people just how diverse Saskatoon is.
“You see this multicultural, diverse atmosphere here and that’s what amazing,” said the Brazilian player. “It’s not just about soccer here it’s about the sense of community.”
It’s that strong sense of community that brings out hundreds of fans.
“The fans are pretty exciting. The first game we played I wasn’t expecting to see as many people, but the crowd gets loud,” said Christey.
Romanian fan Robert Lovric has been coming to the tournament for years supporting friends on the team. He says it’s now become an annual tradition.
“You have to be here, at this long weekend in May. That’s how it is,” said Lovric.
The Saskatoon World Cup continues Sunday with finals on Monday.
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