Senior Summer Experiences: Alec Rotunda
6/18/2015 2:42:00 PM | Men's Soccer
Davidson student-athletes are scattered near and far during the summer months. Few remain in and around Davidson, but most are out in the world taking a break from campus life. However, all are staying fit and preparing for their respective upcoming seasons, while adding extracurricular experiences to their development. Earlier this month we checked in with Alec Rotunda of the men's soccer team on a variety of topics.
Off the field…
I am thrilled to be working with Street Soccer USA in New York City as an Event Production Manager Intern this summer. This is one of over twenty high-quality summer opportunities provided through the Davidson Entrepreneurship Program. Using entrepreneurial instinct as well as evidence based practices, Street Soccer USA, founded by current CEO and Davidson Soccer alumnus Lawrence Cann '00, makes a measurable difference in the lives of underserved youth in urban areas and special needs populations, including homeless families adults, people in recovery, among others. Street Soccer USA's central office is in New York City, though the institution is spread across the country in 16 different cities – Charlotte, Richmond, Seattle, and Chicago to name a few – making a positive difference in people's lives.
As one of two Event Production Manger Interns, I primarily work on the sports and entertainment business side of the industry, aiding the production of major events and competitions that drive revenue towards Street Soccer USA's social mission. The three main events I will contribute to are, the Steve Nash Showdown, New York Cosmos Copa, and Times Square NYC Cup.
The Steve Nash Showdown is an annual celebrity soccer match that raises funds to benefit the Steve Nash Foundation. Sports icons Thierry Henry, Dirk Nowitzki, Robbie Keane, Tony Parker, Brian McBride, and Grant Hill have participated in this yearly Showdown to leverage their support for child welfare. Our second event is the Cosmos Copa. Street Soccer USA, as the official charity partner of the historic professional soccer team the New York Cosmos (NASL), helps organize a FIFA World Cup Style tournament between 'national teams' of the greater New York area. The Copa takes place over a series of four weekends, with the finals to be played at the NY Cosmos' home stadium, August 2nd. Lastly, the Times Square NYC Cup is an all-day 4v4 street soccer tournament held in the streets of Times Square. This high-profile event increases visibility and raises funds for Street Soccer USA, while featuring athletes from homeless shelters around the country as well as corporate sponsors and independent teams.
Professional goals…
I am sharpening my professional skills under the leadership and guidance of the good people at Street Soccer USA. As someone who is interested in pursuing a career in soccer, business, or entrepreneurship, Street Soccer USA is a perfect place to gain experience for the summer. Looking beyond the professional realm, this summer holds great possibility for personal growth as well – living (and eating; the food here is quite good) in New York City for the first time as well as building and strengthening relationships with people around the city.
One way I have already connected with people is through attending a weekly soccer match with the Street Soccer USA team – a group of Street Soccer employees and participants – as part of a local soccer league at Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 5 (just a few minutes' walk from where I live in Brooklyn) overlooking the breathtaking Manhattan skyline. Being around the beautiful game in such a way really gets me excited about uniting with the Davidson Men's Soccer team this fall.
Focus for the team…
We are a young, talented, enthusiastic group that is determined to leave our mark during our second year of Atlantic 10 competition.
Off the field…
I am thrilled to be working with Street Soccer USA in New York City as an Event Production Manager Intern this summer. This is one of over twenty high-quality summer opportunities provided through the Davidson Entrepreneurship Program. Using entrepreneurial instinct as well as evidence based practices, Street Soccer USA, founded by current CEO and Davidson Soccer alumnus Lawrence Cann '00, makes a measurable difference in the lives of underserved youth in urban areas and special needs populations, including homeless families adults, people in recovery, among others. Street Soccer USA's central office is in New York City, though the institution is spread across the country in 16 different cities – Charlotte, Richmond, Seattle, and Chicago to name a few – making a positive difference in people's lives.
As one of two Event Production Manger Interns, I primarily work on the sports and entertainment business side of the industry, aiding the production of major events and competitions that drive revenue towards Street Soccer USA's social mission. The three main events I will contribute to are, the Steve Nash Showdown, New York Cosmos Copa, and Times Square NYC Cup.
The Steve Nash Showdown is an annual celebrity soccer match that raises funds to benefit the Steve Nash Foundation. Sports icons Thierry Henry, Dirk Nowitzki, Robbie Keane, Tony Parker, Brian McBride, and Grant Hill have participated in this yearly Showdown to leverage their support for child welfare. Our second event is the Cosmos Copa. Street Soccer USA, as the official charity partner of the historic professional soccer team the New York Cosmos (NASL), helps organize a FIFA World Cup Style tournament between 'national teams' of the greater New York area. The Copa takes place over a series of four weekends, with the finals to be played at the NY Cosmos' home stadium, August 2nd. Lastly, the Times Square NYC Cup is an all-day 4v4 street soccer tournament held in the streets of Times Square. This high-profile event increases visibility and raises funds for Street Soccer USA, while featuring athletes from homeless shelters around the country as well as corporate sponsors and independent teams.
Professional goals…
I am sharpening my professional skills under the leadership and guidance of the good people at Street Soccer USA. As someone who is interested in pursuing a career in soccer, business, or entrepreneurship, Street Soccer USA is a perfect place to gain experience for the summer. Looking beyond the professional realm, this summer holds great possibility for personal growth as well – living (and eating; the food here is quite good) in New York City for the first time as well as building and strengthening relationships with people around the city.
One way I have already connected with people is through attending a weekly soccer match with the Street Soccer USA team – a group of Street Soccer employees and participants – as part of a local soccer league at Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 5 (just a few minutes' walk from where I live in Brooklyn) overlooking the breathtaking Manhattan skyline. Being around the beautiful game in such a way really gets me excited about uniting with the Davidson Men's Soccer team this fall.
Focus for the team…
We are a young, talented, enthusiastic group that is determined to leave our mark during our second year of Atlantic 10 competition.
Players Mentioned
F
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