On June 12, the Mount Vernon-Lisbon-Springville Youth Soccer Club (MVLSYSC) and Bijou Movie Theater hosted a community showing of the 2026 World Cup opener.
As a player donning a red-striped jersey weaved seamlessly through a sea of defenders, the crowd sitting on the lawn of the Bijou went silent. Bodies tensed in anticipation as all eyes locked on the projection of the United States’ first match of the World Cup.
Following one forceful kick, the crowd watched the goal net snap as the U.S. scored its first goal, releasing all tension that filled Mount Vernon merely moments before. Hands were raised in excitement as passionate voices — young and old — filled the air.
To a community that places a heavy emphasis on soccer due to the growth and interpersonal connection it fosters, the World Cup being hosted in the U.S. for the first time in 32 years is a big deal in Mount Vernon. With this in mind, Bob and Whitney Jost pitched the idea of hosting a local screening at a MVLSYSC meeting earlier this year.
The MVLSYSC is a group that seeks to give kids of all ages the opportunity to play competitive soccer. According to Richard Lewis, a club board member, the MVLSYSC’s main goal is to grow the soccer community in Eastern Iowa, though the club’s overall ambitions are much broader.
“The other goal is to flow them (young athletes) up through middle school and into high school and have really sustainable, winning programs — but more than anything, we just want them to have fun and make great memories playing a great sport,” he said.
Along with the efforts of this nine-member board, this screening was made possible due to a partnership with the Bijou. Although most attendees lounged in lawn chairs and blankets on the ground outside while watching the game, indoor screening options were also provided. Popcorn, Bass Farms ice cream and snacks were offered along with soccer games to keep the kids entertained before kickoff.
Lewis — who is also a coach and soccer parent — explained this event went far beyond just bringing the community together. In addition, the World Cup serves as an inspiration for the young players he coaches.
“These athletes are at the highest of their professions,” he said. “I mean, they are the best of the best…and I’d like to think that could be very inspiring for many young girls and boys to see, ‘this is how the game can be played at the highest of levels.’”
The national pride, togetherness and shared identity created through this event had effects far beyond the building of community connections. This celebration also generated support for young players, which is demonstrated through the boxes of soccer gear that were donated to the MVLSYSC at the showing.
Reflecting on the concrete impacts this club has on its players, Lewis encourages youth who are interested in trying their hand at soccer to join.
“Team sports are so integral to kids’ development,” he said. “They learn so many skills beyond athletics, socializing, dealing with adversity, resilience. All those things come up under the context or under the umbrella of team sports, and that for me is one of the greatest dividends that a club and teams can provide for kids.”
To continue building community, the Bijou will be hosting one free-of-charge outdoor screening per month, the next being in July.
For more information about how to get involved with the club or when to catch the next Bijou screening, visit the MVLS Youth Soccer Club and Bijou Movie Theater Facebook pages, respectively.
