Got World Cup fever? Here’s where to watch on campus
Campus Recreation is screening World Cup games every day in the second floor lounge of the Student Recreation Facility. Photo: UIC News
The best places on campus to catch World Cup fever?
Campus Recreation is screening the games every day in the second floor lounge of the Student Recreation Facility. With water and snacks provided by Dining Services, students, staff and guests can cheer on their favorite team.
“There are definitely a lot of games during work hours, and it’s hard to find a place to watch them. Here, it’s conveniently located,” said Nasim Mobasheri, third-year Ph.D. candidate in computer science.
Although Mobasheri was rooting for Iran’s win against Nigeria June 16, she is looking forward to watching other teams.
“Almost all of them,” said Mobasheri. “I’m a big Italy fan. I’ve been one since I was 5 years old.”
Men’s soccer head coach Sean Phillips said coaches, players and kids enrolled in UIC Soccer Camp gather to watch the U.S. games at the Port Academic Center in the Physical Education Building.
“We’re expecting a big turnout for the June 26 game,” said Phillips, when the U.S. faces Germany.
As you’d expect, the players, campers and coaches are watching as many other games as they can. “We have a large ethnic make-up,” said Phillips. “People are excited to see Greece, Bosnia, Germany, Brazil and Mexico.”
The women’s soccer team starts its first year of competition this fall. In the meantime, team members are getting together at each other’s homes for the World Cup competition.
“It’s really exciting for me, watching all of the games,” said Jasmine Carrera, co-captain of the soccer team and a sophomore in criminology, law and justice. “It’s different styles of different nations coming together.”
“The World Cup allows our game to be recognized across the world, at the highest level with the best players,” said women’s soccer head coach Brian Rigby.
Entrance to the Student Recreation Facility is free for students enrolled in summer courses; guests are $10. Summer memberships are available for faculty, staff, alumni, community members and non-enrolled students; for more information, or call 312-413-5150.
