Rice University embraced its commitment to inclusion and community engagement during the Genuine World Cup Connect event Aug. 1, bringing together a variety of speakers to foster meaningful dialogue and share insights on the inclusion and empowerment of athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism.
Rice has housed teams and served as the host site for the group stage games of the Genuine World Cup, which offers an opportunity for the three host countries of the World Cup to experience the values of genuine soccer through a 12-team tournament featuring athletes with intellectual or neurological differences. The final stage of the tournament was held at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston.
“We are honored to host such a significant gathering dedicated to fostering inclusion and empowerment for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism,” Rice President Reginald DesRoches said.
“At Rice University, we are deeply committed to inclusivity and community engagement. Hosting the Genuine Connect event aligns perfectly with our mission to create an environment where everyone can thrive. We believe that by working together, we can break down the barriers that prevent people with disabilities from fully participating in all aspects of life, including sports.”
During the opening remarks of the Genuine Connect event, Nacho Torras, director of the Genuine World Cup, thanked Rice’s housing and dining department for its hospitality in hosting the teams at McMurtry College and hosting practices and games at Holloway Field.
“The essence of the Genuine World Cup is to use the power of sports to bring people together, break down barriers and promote inclusion,” Torras said.
“From the moment that I knocked, (Rice’s) door has become a bridge. Not only do we have the privilege for the tournament to be hosted at one of the best academic institutions of the world, but the lodging, dining, facilities and other resources made available for the athletes have been outstanding. And while the facilities are crucial, Rice’s best contribution has been the support of every staff member that we have come in contact with. From the bottom of our hearts, we are eternally grateful.”
“Since I learned about this event in February, we have been unwavering in our support for hosting this important program at Rice,” said David McDonald, assistant vice president of housing and dining. “This occasion truly embodies the essence of what Rice and Housing and Dining represent. Equity and inclusion are fundamental to our mission and should be reflected in every aspect of a student’s life, from academics to athletics. Our commitment to supporting programs like these ensures that Rice remains a supportive and welcoming place for everyone.”
Angel Ponce, director of the City of Houston Office for People with Disabilities, read a proclamation on behalf of Mayor John Whitmire declaring Aug. 1, 2024, as Genuine World Cup Day.
“Through events like these, we hope to accomplish that not just all universities but all facilities, organizations and employers throughout the city of Houston are inclusive and are opening doors for all people in general,” Ponce said.
Jeremy Peña, shortstop for the Houston Astros and 2022 World Series MVP, also stopped by to show his support of the event.
“I think it’s something beautiful that’s going on today with the Genuine World Cup,” Peña said. “I’m all for promoting sports, promoting inclusion and promoting diversity. I think those are stepping stones to something greater. Hopefully we can bring this (event) to baseball one day.”