Football vs Homelessness: Street Soccer USA Cup 2009

Thanks to the documentary Kicking It, most football fans are already familiar with the Homeless World Cup, where international teams made up of homeless players compete in a 4 vs 4 street soccer tournament.

But – just like professional football – street soccer isn’t only about the international showpiece. There’s a domestic game too. And this weekend 16 teams from across America will compete in the 2009 Street Soccer USA Cup (2008 champs Minneapolis pictured with the trophy) which kicks off tomorrow, Friday, August 31st, in Washington D.C.

Here’s how street soccer works. Games are seven minutes each half. The field is 72 feet long and 52 feet wide, with a low wall around the outside. It’s 4 vs 4 (one keeper, three outfield players) and each team must have one attacker in the opposition half at all times. That means a lot of 3 vs 2 breakaways, which means a lot of goals. Complete street soccer rules here.

There’s no entry fee for spectators at Street Soccer USA 2009, and you’ll see players who embody everything that today’s overpaid superstars don’t (not naming any names C-Ron, Cashley etc). Players who are battling all kinds of social disadvantages, but are still committed enough to put on a shirt and play.

You might wonder (or at least I did) how playing street soccer could possibly benefit someone who’s homeless. But according to the Street Soccer USA website “SSUSA will change lives, teach important lessons, build self esteem, and 75% of players will move off the street within a year of joining the program.” Can’t argue with that. And great to see yet more proof of the beautiful game being used for positive social change.

If you’ll be anywhere near D.C. in the next three days, then I encourage you to attend. If you’re can’t, but are still interested in watching the tournament, then I’ve got some good news: SSUSA have been very smart and decided to stream the tournament live via their website.

Some Related Stories:

Category: World Football