About the ONE Lowell World Cup

The ONE Lowell World Cup was initiated in 2007 by the non-profit organization, ONE Lowell.  It is a multi-cultural, family-friendly adult soccer tournament designed to build unity among diverse ethnic groups as well as promote and avocate for these groups with the larger community.

From 2007 – 2009 teams represented 16 countries from around the world and featured the region’s finest amateur players.  This year we are increasing the teams to 20 to accommodate more teams requesting to play in the tournament.

The weekend long event brings in thousands of fans to share in the excitement of the games as well as food and music from around the world.  Teams compete in a round robin style tournament culminating in Sunday’s championship match.  The tournament occurs at the Cawley Stadium Complex in Lowell, MA.  Two games are simultaneously played throughout the three days, one game in the stadium and the other a few yards away at the Varsity Field. 

Attendance at the event has grown from 1200 spectators in 2007 to 2000 in 2008 and over 2500 in 2009.  Many fans come to cheer for their “home” team and a visual scan affirms that the fan base is as diverse as the teams themselves.  In 2009, we introduced the youth-oriented Ultimate Penalty Kick event for kids ages 8 – 14.  Fifty contestants vied for the prize, and this new addition was a huge success.

Tournament Goals

  • Promote integration
  • Build social cohesiveness
  • Showcase local talent
  • Promote a positive image of immigrant and refugee residents
  • Increase pride among immigrant groups
  • Proceeds help students achieve success in school

Who is ONE Lowell?

ONE Lowell is a community-based 501(c)3 organization that strives to improve the life, opportunities and involvement of culturally diverse people in the City of Lowell.   We are dedicated to increasing the integration and self sufficiency of Lowell’s many newcomers by strengthening civic participation, developing strong leadership, and increasing access to education, health, and other vital services.  We work as a cultural broker and provide direct services and advocacy in the areas of immigrant rights, citizenship, civic engagement, and help with academic success through parent/student integration for grades 5 – 12.

For more information on ONE Lowell go to: http://www.onelowell.net/