Featured image by Francois Global Sports Network (Midwest Diaspora Cup flyer)
July marks the start of the independence season for Liberians at home and abroad. Those living in the U.S. get the unique experience of celebrating the U.S. Independence Day on July 4, followed by Liberia Independence Day, weeks later, on July 26.
This weekend, on Sunday July 5, Francis O. Nyeekpee, Jr, the founder of Francois Global Sports Network (FGSN), will debut his premiere soccer and kickball tournament in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota — The Midwest Diaspora Cup.
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What is FGSN?
FGSN is a sports organization that hosts various leagues, skills camps, tournaments, and special events. According to its website, its first kickoff in 2012 grew community participation to 16 teams from six in North Carolina.
The organization has organized events in New Jersey, New York, and Georgia, and is now expanding into Minnesota. FGSN focuses on soccer and kickball while adding the latest sport, basketball, to its initiatives.
Nyeekpee, a Liberian entrepreneur and experienced sports organizer, told Go Team Liberia that his organization is committed to elevating youth and amateur athletes from local fields to global opportunities.
“Our goal is for every player, coach, and supporter to feel safe and be a part of something greater: building a future where Liberian and African diaspora talent is organized, visible, and prepared for the global stage,” he said.
Midwest Diaspora Cup
As FGSN’s flagship tournament in Minnesota, the Midwest Diaspora Cup will feature competitive soccer matches alongside exciting kickball games, youth activities, music, and food.
The event will be at Noble Sports Park starting between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. with an entry fee of $5. The one day match will feature five men’s soccer teams and two women’s kickball teams. Nyeekpee said his organization is presenting the kickball match in partnership with the North America Liberian Women’s Kickball Association (NALWKA).
Kickball Teams
- Brooklyn FC
- Minnesota Strikers
Soccer Teams
- Fargo United
- Galaxy All-Star
- Good Guyz FC
- Minnesota Mandingo Association
- Old Boys FC
FGSN continues its mission of using sports as a platform for community engagement, leadership development, and positive social impact. Nyeekpee is expecting the July tournament to be a wonderful edition to the US Independence weekend in Minnesota.
“This event represents what is possible when our community comes together across borders — connecting Liberia, the diaspora, and our partners here in Minnesota — to invest in youth and in sports.”