The FIFA World Cup is the most prestigious international association football (soccer) tournament. It has a long and storied history, and the decision to move it to November is a recent development. World Cup happens every 4 years during the months of June and July. FIFA moved it to November because the hosting country, Qatar, had horrible heat that wasn't suitable for participants and spectators. To celebrate an actual World Cup during the school year is unheard of. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity Birdwell had to seize!
Birdwell students did a lot of things to celebrate the World Cup (passport experience), but the icing on the cake was Copa Entre Generaciones. The middle school students approached Mrs. Naranjo and asked if it was possible to do a staff vs. middle school student game and she couldn't say no. She is a fan of soccer herself, plus it would be fun to support a game match between 2 generations.
La Copa became more than just a game. It helped transform the campus culture at Birdwell. Teachers and staff got excited for the idea of being a player, a sub, or a cheerleader. Adults came out of the woodwork to create high quality videos, flyers, etc. The Communications Department was excited as well and helped Birdwell get airtime on local Spanish media, as well as the Tyler Telegraph.
Student leadership and organization was a huge part of the event! One student served as the manager. He took his role seriously. He knew he had to have good grades. He created an interview process to select players for his team and set expectations about being role models. He negotiated the game rules with Mrs. Naranjo. He even gave a speech to all middle schoolers to indicate how much he appreciated all the interest in the game and the decision was hard when it came to choosing players. This year, the torch was passed to Kevin Banda and he did an amazing job this year as a manager.
Turnout to the game was amazing last year even without vendors or food, plus it was COLD on a November day. This year, the turnout was even greater than last year, and they were blessed with beautiful weather and venders with items for sale. Birdwell hopes to continue this annual tradition and watch it grow each year.