MCLA set to host CIAO Classic this Weekend
The MCLA Men's Soccer program will host the 22nd annual CIAO Classic this weekend. The classic will consist of the Trailblazers, Union (NY) College, Medgar Evers College, and Husson College. The event is a fundraiser for the CIAO organization and hosts doubleheaders each day.
North Adams, MA- The MCLA Men's Soccer team will be hosting the 22nd annual CIAO Fall Soccer Classic September 10th and 11th at Ron Shewcraft Field. The 2011 tournament will feature MCLA Union (NY), last year's tournament champion, Husson College, and Medgar Evers. The first game is scheduled for noon on Saturday.
This weekend's event is sponsored by the CIAO (Community Italian-American Organization). The CIAO was established in the fall of 1999 with the purpose of creating a social club for men and women of Italian American heritage. The organization began with 14 members. Currently, there are 54 members. Over the years, the organization has grown to add "charity" and "service" to the original concept of creating a social atmosphere. The most recognizable growth came in 2005 when the CIAO established the Berkshire County Soccer Hall of Fame. The CIAO used the Hall of Fame as a springboard for local high school soccer players. The money raised by CIAO has been used to create scholarships for Berkshire County male and female student athletes. To date, CIAO has awarded over $70,000 in scholarships around the county. There are also 73 recognized Hall of Fame members.
Looking for another area to branch out and spread its purpose, CIAO has partnered with MCLA Athletics and the Men's Soccer program in hosting the annual tournament. All proceeds from the weekend tournament are used to help the CIAO reach their goals for the 2010-2011 academic year.
2011 CIAO Classic Game Schedule: Ron Shewcraft Field
Saturday, September 10th:
Noon- Husson vs. Union
2:00pm- MCLA vs. Medgar Evers
Sunday, September 11th:
Noon- Union (NY) vs. Medgar Evers
2:00pm- MCLA vs. Husson