On Feb. 24, students gathered in Engbretson Hall for an exciting FIFA video game tournament that brought together competition, community, and campus collaboration. The event centered on football (soccer) through the FIFA video game series and featured a high-energy, best-of-three competition format.

FIFA stands for Fédération Internationale de Football Association, the international governing body of soccer. The organization oversees major global competitions, including the FIFA World Cup. FIFA is also the name of the popular soccer video game franchise that simulates professional football matches, allowing players to control real teams and athletes in competitive play.

The tournament was hosted through a collaboration between the Latinx Resource Center, the Association of Latin American Students (A.L.A.S.), and the Anime and Gaming Club. A.L.A.S., which stands for the Association of Latin American Students, is a student organization focused on promoting Latin American culture, supporting academic success, and fostering community engagement on campus.

Five teams competed in the bracket-style tournament. Many participants were experienced players, including members of the GovState Esports team and the Men’s Soccer team. Their familiarity with the game was evident in the strategic passing, defensive awareness, and quick counterattacks displayed throughout the matches.

“The competition was intense, but it was all friendly,” said tournament winner Dida Bravo. “A lot of us have been playing FIFA for years, so it was exciting to compete against people who really know the game.”

Co-champion Adrian Villalobos agreed. “It felt like a real match atmosphere,” Villalobos said. “When the room reacts to a last-minute goal, it makes you even more locked in.”

Approximately 30 to 40 students attended the event, either competing or cheering from the sidelines. The crowd erupted during close goals and dramatic finishes, creating an atmosphere similar to a live sporting event.

“Even if you weren’t playing, it was fun to watch,” said Madai Juárez, vice president of the Association of Latin American Students. “Events like this bring students together. You see people from different majors and organizations connecting over something they enjoy.”

Juárez, a Social Work student who is also involved with the School of Extended Learning and works as a Jaguar Jumps Intern, emphasized the importance of student collaboration. “When organizations work together, we can create spaces where students feel welcome and engaged,” Juarez, Madai said.

Students remained engaged until the final match concluded, celebrating Bravo and Villalobos as they received their medals. Organizers expressed hope that the February 24 tournament will become an annual tradition.

Upcoming Events

• March 5 at 4 p.m. – The Latinx Resource Center will host a virtual entrepreneurship workshop.
• March 26 from 12–1 p.m. – The Latinx Resource Center and the Association of Latin American Students will present a “Stitch and Chat” event featuring embroidery and crochet tutorials. All materials will be provided.
• Date TBD – The Anime and Gaming Club is planning a Just Dance video game event. For more information, students can contact the club president at [email protected].