Team San Francisco, winners of the 2009 Street Soccer Cup, hoist the Leonsis Trophy. (Martin Locraft)

18 street soccer teams from around the country have once again descended upon D.C. for the 2010 Street Soccer USA Cup. The free tournament is being played all weekend at the current Washington Kastles team tennis stadium, located at 11th and H Streets, NW, within the parking lot.

These aren’t your typical Donovans, Henrys, or Ronaldos though. These players are currently or formerly homeless men and women, working for personal and social change. More than just a soccer league, Street Soccer USA represents a slew of services and programs meant to transform lives, “from one of isolation, abuse, and marginalization, to one of community, purpose, and achievement.” Riding on the coattails of the recently contested FIFA World Cup, this year’s Street Soccer Cup may represent a unique opportunity to take advantage of a renewed interest in soccer, demonstrating that the beautiful game isn’t always a vehicle for the elite towards fame and fortune.

At the moment, the D.C. Knights have just wrapped up its group play with a 3-1 record, keeping the door open to move on to the finals. The team from Montgomery County team holds the top of its group with three wins and two more games lined up today against Richmond and Portland.