Episode 3: Prepare for the Pitch – Rhode Island’s FIFA Base Camp
As Rhode Island prepares for soccer’s world stage in 2026, the Ocean State is emerging as a top-tier contender for visiting teams.
In Episode 3 of the Rhode Island Summer of Soccer podcast, host Joe Kayata sits down with Bill Smith, Vice President of Athletics & Recreation at Bryant University, and Cory Kramer, General Manager of Graduate by Hilton Providence, to explore why both institutions were selected for the official FIFA Base Camp brochure — and what that recognition means for Rhode Island.
From Bryant’s history of hosting professional and Division I athletes, to the Graduate’s recovery-focused amenities and proximity to our food scene and culture, we’ll chat about what Rhode Island has to offer on and off the pitch.
brought to you by
Ocean State 2026

Ocean State 2026 is a nonprofit organization that was created to facilitate business sponsorships of 39 days of events across Rhode Island, to entertain soccer fans from around the world, and to celebrate the international matches being played in nearby Massachusetts next summer.
