The energy was high, the competition fierce, and the sense of community stronger than ever as the College of Business and Economics hosted its first-ever Soccer Cup Tournament on Thursday, March 26.
What started as a simple idea quickly turned into a powerful collaboration among student leaders determined to bring something new and exciting to campus. The Accounting Society, Beta Alpha Psi, Financial Management Association, Hispanic Business Society, Marketing Club, and Alpha joined forces to create an event centered on connection, competition, and school spirit. Leading the initiative was Aleesa Gonzalez, President of the Hispanic Business Society, whose vision helped transform inspiration into reality.
That inspiration came from a visit to CSU Long Beach, where students witnessed a large-scale soccer tournament uniting multiple CSU campuses. Bringing that same energy back to Cal State LA, student leaders saw an opportunity to do more than just host a game—they wanted to build community, create lasting connections, and give their organizations a platform to shine.
“Increasing membership was a goal for all club members,” shared Jacquelyn Cisneros, President of the Financial Management Association Business Society. But beyond recruitment, the tournament became a way to amplify visibility. With so many clubs on campus, some organizations can easily be overlooked. This event changed that putting business clubs in front and center in a fun, high-impact way, stated “Aleesa, Hispanic Business Society president.
Turning this vision into reality required teamwork off the field as much as on it. Each club president took on a role, working together to plan, promote, and execute the event. Their efforts paid off, with 60 to 70 students signing up instantly and ready to compete. Teams of eight players, along with substitutes, battled it out in four fast-paced eight-minute rounds that kept spectators on their feet.
After an afternoon filled with excitement, teamwork, and unforgettable moments, the Accounting Society claimed the championship title, earning both bragging rights and a well-deserved victory.
But this is only the beginning.
With the success of the inaugural Soccer Cup, student leaders are already thinking bigger. Plans are underway to bring the event back in the fall, possibly expanding into a full tournament series, including a basketball competition. The goal remains clear: to continue building a vibrant, connected community while increasing student involvement across all business clubs.
More than just a tournament, the Soccer Cup marked the start of a new tradition, one where competition fuels connection, and community always comes out on top.
