The Cosmos Copa, New York City's "World Cup," returns for its third year.

Founded in 2009 by Spencer Dormitzer and Chris Noble, this year's summer blockbuster amateur adult soccer tournament formerly recognized as "Copa NYC" will feature 30 New York-based teams representing their countries in their quest of hoisting the Cosmos Cup. 

Not only will the winning team be declared the "Cosmos Copa City Champion," they will be heroes in their ethnic community. If last year's finale between Poland and Jamica was a classic, where Poland was declared the winners after winning 5-3 in penalties, imagine how competitive this year's tournament maybe.

On Wednesday, April 27, 2011, the defending champions, NYC Poland kicked off this year's Cosmos Copa launch reception at the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in New York. Representatives of the competing teams attended.

From media, dignitaries, team officials and players, all were present to not only represent their country, but to represent New York City's goodwill of soccer.

Hosting the launch reception was none other than ESPN's color commentator Tommy Smyth. Having the audience eating out of the palm of his hands, Tommy said to the audience:

“I have been with Cosmos Copa since the beginning, and this event has done many great things for New York City. I’m proud to be a part of something that brings a high level of cultural respect and competitive soccer together in one place, while giving sports fans of all ages an entertaining summer event.”

Also on hand was Borough Boys president Nick Laveglia. He presented Tommy Smyth an official Borough Boys Supporters scarf who in return graciously accepted it. Ever the busy man that he is, Nick was busy chatting it up with former Cosmos great Shep Messing and members of the New York Cosmos staff.

For the duration of the evening, the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland was electrifying. The cultural borders were broken as representatives from different ethnic team fraternized amongst each other.

While all of this was happening, I couldn't help what was in store for this year's Cosmos Copa championship match. Last year, Pelé surprised all of us in attendance at the halftime of the Poland-Jamaica final to announce the return of the New York Cosmos.

So, what's going to happen at this year's halftime?

By no means am I guaranteeing something monumental is going to happen at this year's halftime championship match. However, if you're thinking about what I'm thinking about the possible scenario, then I recommend you attend this year's Cosmos Copa.

You know the saying, "Anything can happen in New York minute."

For more information, go to www.cosmoscopa.com or follow the tournament on Twitter at @CosmosCopa or Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/cosmoscopa.

Cesar Diaz covers Soccer for LatinoSports.com. He's also a Columnist for USSoccerPlayers.com; your source for American Soccer news brought to you by members of the U.S. National Team.

Easily accessible, you may reach Cesar at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and at Twitter at @CoveringSoccer.

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