Friday at 8 p.m. the SMU women’s soccer team will be taking on the Chinese National Team at Westcott Field.
The Panda Cup is being hosted at SMU to unite the Chinese and American cultures in a non-competitive tournament.
Ajay Samuel, director of publicity for the Panda Cup, explains that his event is coming to SMU because SMU “has always been a place where people from different cultures come together.”
The success of this international tournament originated last year when American teams were invited to China. This year a Canadian team, and several U.S. teams, including Texas A&M and TCU, are hosting the Chinese National Team.
Texas A&M defeated the Chinese National Team 1-0 earlier this year. A&M beat SMU 4-2 during the fall season.
According to soccer player Caitlin Carter, the matchup with China is, “going to be a close game.”
Panda Cup is designed to bring together two diverse cultures through a common passion for sports. Chinese coaches, players, dignitaries and staff will be able to experience American hospitality, customs and sportsmanship. This tournament is also an opportunity for Chinese soccer players, hosted by Texas families, to encounter southern hospitality. The Chinese students will have a chance to visit several universities and get acquainted with the American College life.
There will be no prizes for the winners, although, as Samuel pointed out, there will be an exchange of gifts, which signifies the Chinese’ gratitude towards their hosts.
Tickets can be purchased for $5.00 at the SMU Ticket office on the north side of Ford Stadium.