This summer at Rice Stadium, the Genuine Cup (https://genuinecup.org) returned to Houston with Estonia participating.
From July 27–August 1, more than 1000 athletes with intellectual disabilities (IDD) and autism representing 50 teams from 50 countries came together for a week of competition, connection, and community. Hosted by the Genuine Foundation, the tournament is part of a broader effort to expand inclusion through sport, advocacy, and opportunity. It is more than a game. It’s a platform for visibility, opportunity, and inclusion on a global stage.
Ignacio “Nacho” Torras and his family co-founded and continue to lead the Genuine Cup, alongside partners like Lorna Ortiz. It is backed by major local and international partners – such as Grundfos and the Manchester United Foundation – alongside fundraising dinners featuring world-renowned chefs. Eric Maidla, the Estonian Honorary Consul for Houston and his family, helped host one dinner event and was truly impressed by the generosity of the Genuine Foundation. Those attending the special dinner at Sixty Vines restaurant for the delegation included:
Players: Andres Tamme, Mihkel Kalju, Ragnar Vahesaar, Tõnu Kidra, Andre Salund, Kristo Kunglamäe, Toomas Abel, Reivo Sillamaa, Risto Iljin, Marko Ojamets, Veiko Talvik.
Staff: Rain Tölpus – Head of delegation, Martti Pukk – Estonian Football Association, Karl Palatu – Partner club Pärnu Vaprus, Silver Õismets – Head coach, Diana Oiukas – Doctor, Karin Lipstuhl – Partner club Pärnu Vaprus, Reilika Kiviselg – activity instructor/therapist, Marika Ööpik – activity instructor/therapist.
Rain Tölpus, Head of the delegation, commented: “This kind of international tournament was a great experience for our athletes and coaches who all said that the events will be in their memories for a long time.”
During their visit, the group had the opportunity to visit the NASA Space Center, the Houston Zoo, a rodeo complete with a true Texas BBQ, as well as a jazz club and a Harlem Globetrotters basketball show. They even visited some local supermarkets and shops.
Some of the players also had the opportunity to have medical evaluations organized by the Torras family, who supported all the events.
Link from the Estonian Football Association about the trip:
Facebook post:
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1Bqixu98LT/
Video:
https://youtu.be/sQvZccZKHdo?si=8jzSTjukBEiEcneV
Anne-Reet Annunziata
