Eyes are glued to the screen, anticipating the foreseeable future. Everyone watching has the same fear lingering in their minds; will their team fumble the goal? Conversing with friends is not an option for these viewers. In the moment, it feels like they are playing in the match itself, nervously waiting for their teammate to kick. Soon enough, the player shoots…. and he scores! Eyes widen, jaws drop, and triumphant cheers are heard not only in heard the Qatar stadium, but around the Carrollwood Day School building.

The start of the games in the International Federation of Association Football – or the FIFA World Cup – has sparked interest among the students at Carrollwood Day School, forming unlikely, yet enjoyable connections with fellow classmates. Most students are found watching the World Cup in any classroom where a teacher can stream it, or on their personal laptops. It’s almost a guarantee to find a group of people huddled around a tiny laptop screen, or a cluster of students in a classroom, with the game streaming on the TV.

“I love watching the World Cup, especially when the USA was playing, because the school was very proud of the team and brought so many people together,” sophomore Adassa Pinhasov noted.

Pinhasov’s sense of community fostered by the World Cup is agreed upon by other students as well.

“The World Cup is so fun to watch! It’s so hype, and I think that environment brings people together” sophomore Mariam Gouda remarked.

“Watching the World Cup at school is really fun. Everyone gets so crazy, and I think that’s the best part, especially because people from all cultures come together to root for one team!” junior Gabby Anderson expressed.

While some students may not be as interested in the soccer matches, they join their enthusiastic friends to see what the hype is all about.

“Even though I don’t watch the World Cup, I enjoy the hype that it brings, because it fosters a good sense of community and the general atmosphere is thrilling. Even though it can get a bit heated at times, I think it’s all in good fun,” sophomore Grace Tan said.

Freshman Charley Jonsson agreed with Tan. “Both the players and the students help to create a really exciting atmosphere, and I think that’s what the World Cup is all about.”

Throughout the community, the matches have unintentionally formed bonds at CDS, with feelings of disappointment and happiness shared amongst students.

Seeing as many matches start at 10 am and 2 pm, and end close to 11:30 am and 3:30 pm respectively, some second-block and fourth-block teachers play the live match or highlights during class, allowing students to work on their assignments while staying updated.

Throughout the duration of the 64 matches played in the World Cup, many students watch where they can in the Carrollwood Day School building. From facilitating conversation to strengthening friendships and bonds, the World Cup has positively impacted CDS.