The Cost of Living Classic and What it Represents

Last weekend, democratic nominee for the Mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdani, in collaboration with NYC Footy, hosted the inaugural 'Cost of Living Classic' soccer tournament in Coney Island.

The tournament was free to participate in and welcomed teams from each of New York City's five boroughs. 

The tournament was split into a set of parallel competitions. With a competitive tournament for the already established teams, and a casual tournament for those who just wanted a kick about. 

The subsequent winners were: Soccer Lovers of Bushwick in the casual heat and Hellas-Toria FC in the competitive heat.

Mamdani has an extensive footballing history. He's an avid and long-term supporter of Arsenal and player of the game, having played through his schooling and, up until a few years ago, in one of NYC Footy's leagues. 

Mamdani has also recently spoken outwardly surrounding FIFA's decision to implement competitive pricing for the upcoming World Cup that's set to be co-hosted in the United States, along with Canada and Mexico. 

The 34-year-old has made it clear that he aims to make the city of New York a more affordable, more community-driven city and sees the commercialisation of football as a threat to those key values.

“I don’t think a stable future for soccer can be built upon the denial of working-class fans being able to watch the game themselves. The more you look into where these revenues are spent, the thinner some of the arguments are that are made by FIFA,” said Mamdani, speaking to The Athletic.

The tournament held last weekend signifies what football should represent: a sense of community. Football teams are built around communities and are essential to the way they operate. The fact that members of these communities are being priced out of the sport is a cruel juxtaposition of the beautiful game.

Football is the common denominator for so many people. It unites people of all ages, creeds and faiths. It's a sport for all and seeing events like this reminds me of just how important this silly little game really is. 

"A lot of members of the press asked: Why have a soccer tournament? I think about the words of Ronaldinho, he said: 'Football is about Joy'. It's just a joy to not only be here with you, but also to have such a community" Said Mamdani following the trophy lifts.

In a world so tumultuous, football brings a form of stability, a form of joy.