This week, Oakland Roots SC will take the field at California State University, East Bay for the first time, but the two organizations have already been working together for years, thanks to our shared belief in the role of sports in driving social change.
CSU, EB, which boasts one of the most diverse student bodies in the United States, has been recognized as a leader in this space for over a decade thanks to the work of The Center for Sport and Social Justice (CSSJ), which was formed in 2011.
The mission of the CSSJ is to promote inclusion and social justice in sport and physical activity through community engagement and scholarly activities, and is led by Co-Directors Dr. Matthew Atencio and Dr. Missy Wright, professors from the Department of Kinesiology.
The CSSJ has hosted over 30 events featuring nationally recognized speakers, athletes and advocates for the role of sports in creating a more equitable society. Importantly, the CSSJ cultivates working relationships with leading community sports organizations including Oakland Roots and Soul SC, to improve environmental, community, and family life in the region.
Oakland Roots SC staff also support the CSSJ directly through voluntary service with both Chief Purpose Officer Mike Geddes and Mental Health and Sport Performance Coach Lisa Bonta Sumii serving on the CSSJ advisory board.
So far, the CSSJ and Oakland Roots SC have come together for two key collaborations, focusing on environmental sustainability and athlete mental health.
CSSJ scholars and student representatives have also assisted Oakland Roots SC in their goal to create a long-term sustainability strategy. In 2022, a technical report was developed by the CSSJ that referred to community-focused, grassroots and indigenous practices used to reduce carbon emissions. This report eventually provided several recommendations to Oakland Roots SC in regards to tackling climate change and the reduction of greenhouse gasses.
“The CSSJ has been a great resource for us as we build the first, Purpose-driven professional sports club in the United States. We appreciate the chance to learn from and support the pioneering work the Center has done in this space, and we’re delighted to now be able to collaborate with Cal State East Bay on the field as well as in the classroom”
Mike Geddes, Oakland Roots SC Chief Purpose Officer
On the topic of athlete mental health, Oakland Roots’ Mental Health and Sport Performance Coach, Lisa Bonta Sumii, has lectured to CSSJ students and faculty members and participated in the CSSJ’s “Making Moves” podcast series, along with special guest Nana Attakora, Oakland Roots SC’s Director of Player Personnel).
Bonta Sumii is slated to return for another podcast episode in 2023 to further discuss athlete mental health and performance, especially for college students at CSUEB trying to balance their academic and athletic interests.
“The Center for Sports and Social Justice has worked closely with the Roots to address key issues in our community including athlete mental health and climate change. Their leaders have been in our classrooms, served on our advisory board and helped create student learning resources such as our ‘Making Moves’ podcast series.”
Matthew Atencio, CSSJ Co-Director
