The first edition of the AILO Soccer Cup, a charity five-a-side football tournament organized by AILO – American International League of Florence ETS ODV, under the patronage of the Municipality of Florence, has come to a successful conclusion. The initiative brought together students from American universities based in Florence, promoting sport, solidarity and integration with the local community.
The tournament took place over four evenings at the Associazione Sportiva Dilettantistica Archè, with teams representing California State University, CIEE, Georgetown University, New York University and CEA CAPA, the latter fielding two teams.
The initiative also aimed to recognize the commitment of the many American students who, during their study abroad experience in Florence, dedicate part of their free time to volunteering activities in support of the local community.
The final, held on October 7, 2026, saw CEA CAPA 1 emerge as the tournament champions. Individual awards were also presented to Maghai Ghak (Georgetown) as Best Player, Bella Reeve (CEA CAPA 1) as Best Female Player, and Maddie McMillan (CEA CAPA 2) as Best Goalkeeper.
The tournament raised 323 euro, which AILO will donate to support a project run by Centro Terapeutico Europeo.
Emanuele Esposto and Linda Mensuali of California State University are behind the idea for the initiative. California State University hosted the awards ceremony and the Bagno a Ripoli branch of the Italian Red Cross provided medical assistance. The photographers were Stefano Forlucci and Alessandro Parcossi of IMEISCATTIDICORSA.
The next edition is scheduled for February 2027, with the goal of involving ten U.S. universities. Further information will be available on the AILO website.
