This Wednesday, California lawmakers will set their political differences aside to compete for a cause. The 6th annual Capitol Cup soccer match, co-hosted by Republic FC at Cristo Rey High School, will kick off featuring California State Senators and Assemblymembers on the pitch in a friendly competition.
Since 2017, Republic FC has joined together the state’s lawmakers for the match, which serves as a platform for representatives to raise money for a different local non-profit organization each year. It is contested by region – with representatives taking the field for squads representing Northern and Southern California with bragging rights and the coveted Capitol Cup on the line.
The event is open to the public. Admission is $25 and includes a ticket to Republic FC’s league matchup on May 13 against Indy Eleven at Heart Health Park.
This year’s event benefits both Special Olympics Northern California and Southern California, with proceeds being split between the two organizations. State-wide, they combine to serve over 65,000 athletes each year, providing important access to athletic participation and continued opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in the sharing of gifts, skills and friendship for those with intellectual disabilities. For the first time, the match will include representatives of the benefitting group. Athletes from both Special Olympics Northern and Southern California will take the pitch for their respective sides.
“We’re excited to once again partner with the Capitol Community and use soccer to support local non-profits and the incredible work they do,” said Republic FC President & General Manager Todd Dunivant. “With the athletes from Special Olympics joining our elected officials on the field this year, the match will be a great showcase.”
“My colleagues and I are excited to join Special Olympics athletes from across California in participating in this year’s Capitol Cup,” said Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal. “Special Olympics athletes are an inspiration to so many on and off the pitch and I look forward to witnessing their talent as their partner in the Cup.”
The reigning champion Northern California squad is captained by Attorney General Rob Bonta – the undisputed MVP of the 2022 event that raised $50,000 for Stanford Sierra Youth and Families – and Assemblymember Marc Berman. Team South is led by State Senator Catherine Blakespear and Assemblymember Miguel Santiago.
