GLENDALE, Calif. — The excitement of international soccer spilled onto Artsakh Avenue as families, fans and young athletes gathered for Summer of Soccer, a community celebration combining a World Cup watch party with games, activities and opportunities to get involved in the sport.
Inclusive Voices Media youth reporters Yeraz and Sophia took viewers through the festivities, where a crowd gathered to watch England face France on a large screen.
“This is Summer of Soccer,” the young reporters said as they introduced viewers to the celebration and walked through Artsakh Avenue.
Beyond watching the match, visitors could take part in a variety of activities designed for children and families. The YMCA offered face painting, while other areas featured a soccer shoot-a-thon and a station where attendees could decorate and customize hats.
Food and soccer-related activities added to the festival atmosphere as spectators filled chairs surrounding the viewing area.
The event also offered young soccer enthusiasts a chance to learn more about opportunities to play and develop their skills.
One of the attractions highlighted during the tour was Skyline Pitch, a rooftop soccer venue located atop The Americana at Brand parking structure.
A representative at the event described Skyline Pitch as featuring two soccer fields along with 10 different ways for visitors to play soccer. Demonstration games at the Summer of Soccer event gave attendees a sample of the activities available at the rooftop venue.
The combination of a live match viewing, youth activities and interactive soccer experiences turned Artsakh Avenue into more than a place to watch a game. It provided an opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the sport together.
As international soccer captured the attention of fans across Southern California, community events such as Summer of Soccer demonstrate how the game can create connections well beyond the stadium.
For Yeraz and Sophia, the assignment ended by taking in the crowd enjoying the celebration around them.
“You just have everyone enjoying, having a good time,” they said before signing off from Artsakh Avenue.
