This weekend marked the kick-off of a fantastic soccer tourney, Euro2008! The “beautiful game” (aka soccer or football) will be on display throughout the many stadiums that the qualifying teams will compete in for the next 22 days. It is called the beautiful game for many reasons, but I believe it has been bestowed this title because of the magical improvisation and captivating atmosphere the game creates when played at this level of competition. I also think there is a secondary reason the game of soccer is known as the beautiful game – because of its ability to impact humanity. The world takes pause for major soccer events. Battle fields have been silenced in order to witness and enjoy the play of a soccer match. Lives have been forever changed because of the game too. The Homeless World Cup is a great example of the power of this game to transform lives and impact the social issue of homelessness and poverty.

I shared a bit about the HWC and my personal connection and support for Team Gomo Tong representing Uganda at the event in previous posts. On Page 2, I wrote about the Sundance Film Festival premiere of the recently created documentary, “Kicking It.” The film details the lives of seven players who are facing personal foes and hopeful that a ball can change their lives for the better.

“Kicking It,” by Susan Koch and funded by Ted Leonsis, will be enjoying a limited release in theaters starting this week. ESPN purchased the rights to the film and will be airing it sometime in the fall, but I just wanted to make you aware of this opportunity to view the film early and to enjoy its message of how a ball is changing the lives of many thought to be lost souls.

Here’s the theater details:
Opens June 13
New York
City Cinemas Village East
181 2nd Avenue
Box Office: (212) 529-6998

Opens June 27
Los Angeles
Laemmle’s Sunset 5
8000 Sunset Blvd.
West Hollywood
Box Office: (323) 848-3500

Opens June 27
Washington DC
Landmark’s E Street Cinema
555 11th Street NW Washington
Box Office: (202) 452-7672

Enjoy the matches played throughout Euro2008 for they are certain to be filled with high drama and memorable moments. And if you’re in any of the cities showing the film “Kicking It,” get out and enjoy another drama unfold via the global game of soccer. You will see a story that demonstrates the beautiful game’s positive impact on the lives of many who were in life’s proverbial bottom rung and how the game saves them from any more social relegation and gives them a tremendous trophy to lift above their heads – one filled with dignity, pride and a chance to contribute to their community in a positive manner. Now, that’s worth taking a moment to pause for as well!