“Soccer has a universal language. It is part of our shared cultures,” Laurent Zunino, French professor at the University of Tennessee, said.
After a 5-year sabbatical attributed to COVID-19, the World Language and Cultures Department soccer tournament has finally returned for its eighth edition. On Sept. 23, players representing 10 different languages will be competing on the TRECS turf field for the ultimate prize — bragging rights for their department and a giant trophy.
In 2010, Zunino founded the event in collaboration with the Italian program with the hopes of promoting friendly sportsmanship, teamwork and social connection among the WLCC students.
Dr. Adrian Del Caro, the department chair of that year and humanities professor, enthusiastically pushed for production. Del Caro saw the potential in fostering an exciting tradition that encouraged cultural unity while keeping the students active.
Soccer is a globally adored pastime practiced by over 200 nations. The 2022 FIFA Cup received online engagement from roughly 5 billion individuals, with a staggering 1.5 billion viewers watching the final match.
Zunino spoke on the cultural relevance the activity carries for the WLCC. Among the 10 teams playing at this year’s tournament, every language represented has registered professional players in the real world.
“In the US, people call it the ‘Beautiful Game,’” Zunino said. “It is a sport of exchange, at the same time universal, simple and aesthetic, a game that brings a lot of emotions.”
This tournament would not be possible without the support and hard work of the students. The teams, entirely student-led, are co-ed and are made up of 12 players per team.
Alyssia Lira, Spanish professor and team coach, organized weekly practices for the Spanish students representing the department. She’s making sure they’re fully prepared to have an excellent game and an invigorating experience.
“The Spanish department will have posters and flags, and we ask all our supporters to wear red,” said Lira.
The tournament is free and open to all.
“Everybody is welcome to attend and support the students who are playing,” Zunino said. “It is so nice to see that soccer brings the community together, in a celebration of fun and peace.”
The tournament will feature a student-hosted kickoff at 4:30 p.m. There, attendees can enjoy open soccer drills, face-painting, field games and fun prizes. Knoxville’s professional club team,One Knox SC, will be in attendance for the pre-game activities, offering discounted tickets for their upcoming Hispanic Heritage Night game.
“It’s a super fun way to spend your afternoon,” Lira said. “It’s also a fun way for the students in WLCC and not in the WLCC to get together. It might even inspire non-WLC students to enroll in a language course.”
The tournament is a testament to cultural identity, student spirit and unity amongst the language learners of UT. It began with the intention of bringing together its department students, but ultimately attracted individuals of all kinds to come and enjoy. This event is not just for the WLCC — it is for anyone who wants to support their community and enjoy an enriching experience.
“Every student who participates is already a winner,” Zunino said.
The tournament will occur on the TRECS turf field on Sept. 23 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Bring a positive attitude, some national spirit and a good pair of tennis shoes.
This story has been modified from its original version published on Friday, Sept. 19, 2025. The original version stated “the World Langauges Center.” It has been changed to state the correct name of the department.
