CROSS RIVER, N.Y. - On Friday night, June 12, John Jay FC hosted a World Cup watch party at St. Mary’s in Ridgefield. Featuring a giant outdoor screen, pizza, ice cream, and soccer balls flying in every direction, the gathering reflected the club’s mission of building community through the sport.
“It’s a great opportunity to inspire the next generation to get excited by the game,” said JJFC President Simon Smith.
But beyond promoting soccer, Smith had a simpler goal for the evening.
“I just want to see people have fun and enjoy themselves,” he said.
Five-year-old Alexia Reda didn’t need a watch party to explain how scoring goals makes her feel.
“Happy,” she said confidently.
The kindergartner also knows what makes her successful on the field.
“I score because I run so fast,” she explained.
Her father, Phil Reda, appreciates another aspect of the club.
“I like how the coaches make everyone feel like they belong,” he said.
That sense of inclusion resonates with Ame Brewster. Growing up in Texas, she said soccer was often overshadowed by football. Events like the watch party, however, demonstrate how much the sport's popularity has grown.
“I’m really excited about how this country has become more focused on soccer,” she said.
Daniela DeGiacomo has never experienced a shortage of soccer enthusiasm. Originally from Brazil, she said the sport is woven into everyday life.
“Passion for soccer is part of Brazilian culture,” DeGiacomo said.
While soccer may not yet enjoy the same status in the United States, she believes its growth is undeniable.
“Twenty-five years ago, you didn’t hear much about soccer. But in the last 10 years, it’s been great to see the growth,” said the mother of two.
Nine-year-old Silvia Schulman isn't focused on participation statistics. For her, the strength of her team is what matters most.
“We all believe in each other, and with teamwork, we can do anything,” she said.
Still, individual skill has its place. Olin Hargrove was quick to identify his favorite part of the game.
“I like dribbling downfield and breaking kids’ ankles,” he said with a grin.
The 11-year-old also credits his coach for helping the team stay focused.
“He’s got a strict regimen that keeps us focused,” said the Meadow Pond Elementary School student.
Of course, Olin knows none of it would be possible without his mother driving him to practices and games. Asked to rate her performance as a soccer mom, he didn't hesitate.
“She’s a five-star soccer mom,” he asserted.
Tara Rene earned high marks from her son as well. Even though his new team has yet to find consistent success, she sees value in the effort they bring every time they step onto the field.
“They bring their all every game,” Rene said.
That attitude has Noah Rene working hard on his skills, but he was perfectly content to be a spectator for the evening's festivities.
“The USA is going to win,” he predicted.
Smith was equally enthusiastic about the tournament, though he acknowledged that one potential matchup could put him at odds with some of the crowd.
“I will root for England,” said the U.K.-born soccer fan.
As head of the 50-year-old 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Smith noted that the watch party also served as a fundraiser for the club's approximately 500 members.
“We are trying to raise $15,000 to purchase portable field lights so we can offer more practice sessions for kids once the sun goes down,” he said.
A worthy goal, supporters said, because the club's mission extends beyond developing better soccer players.
“Soccer and the watch party,” concluded board member Sarah Menichelli, “it’s about bringing people together.”
To donate, visit: www.justgiving.com/campaign/john-jay-fc-2026
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