Ahead of World Cup, EMSC celebrates soccer

Sean Cooke and Sal D’Amico chased the ball along the inflatable sideline.

Susan Grieco/Herald

Megan Fischer, left, and Paige Werlau battled for a loose ball at Speno Park.

Susan Grieco/Herald

Vincent Daly and John Reynolds fought for control.

Susan Grieco/Herald

Michaelyn Benson, left, tried to stave off defender Alexis Rondinelli.

Susan Grieco/Herald

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It’s the season of soccer, not only in East Meadow, but worldwide. On Thursday, The 2014 FIFA World Cup will kick off in Brazil. Teams from countries all over the world — including the United States — will compete to determine the champion.

On Sunday, soccer was on full display at Speno Park in East Meadow, but in a much less competitive manner. The East Meadow Soccer Club hosted its annual intramural festival, giving kids of all ages an added opportunity to play the sport for fun, on fields with inflatable dividers. More than 800 families were expected to participate in the festivities throughout the daylong event.

In addition, the Herald asked the young athletes about what they are most excited for in this year’s World Cup tournament.

"Watching a great player like Lionel Messi should be very exciting."   

Matthias Martin

                                                                        
"Soccer is my favorite sport... I've been playing since I was 3,
                                                                             so I'm excited to watch the great players in the World Cup."

Amanda Green

"I'm happy to watch all of the great players from the best soccer teams in the world."

Arjun Varma

"I'm excited to watch Messi bring Argentina to the finals!"

Eric Valasquez

"Watching all of the teams unite together to determine
who is the best of the best in world soccer."

Leandra Meuller

"Being a typical girl, I'm really looking forward to
watching Cristiano Ronaldo play for Portugal."

Thea Weingarden