For those not in the know, the Dallas Cup is probably the world's largest youth soccer tourney, bringing in over 140 teams from around the world in various age groups. Past alumni include Beckham, Owen, and Claudio Reyna (and last year, Freddy Adu played). Another big storyline this year is the possibility of a combined Israeli/Palestenian youth team. The Dallas Morning News is the only site I can find reporting it so far, but they're registration is a bitch, so here's a summary of their report:
Dallas Cup officials, always aiming to leverage youth soccer into a tool for diversity and unification, are close to clinching perhaps their greatest achievement. Executive director Gordon Jago says he is 90 percent certain that efforts to bring a combined Palestinian-Israeli squad will prove successful. Dallas Cup officials are working with nonprofit organizations to assemble an under-12 and under-14 team from Israel, combining Jewish and Arab boys. The group will play under the name "Peace Team." They are working with the U.S. State Department to ensure that visas are obtained in time for the April 4-11 tournament. Dallas Cup officials are identifying potential local sponsors for the politically significant venture.
Behold, the power of sport.
Oh, I forgot to add, anyone in the D/FW area (or willing to travel) that wants to go catch a few games, especially of these teams, let me know, I'll probably be out there anyways.
That's really, really cool. If you see a 'donate money' link somewhere, let us know... I'd do it.
Very cool. A TV special on this event by ESPN, FSW or even PBS would be spectacular, I imagine, but somehow I doubt anyone will do it.
