WILLEMSTAD – Neighborhood teams from across Curaçao have kicked off the second edition of the ‘From Street to Stadium’ football tournament, an initiative of Fundashon Bicentini aimed at keeping children off the streets and teaching them responsibility.

The opening match between Mahuma and Weto ended in a 1-1 draw, with Weto winning the penalty shootout 3-1. In total, twelve neighborhood teams faced each other over the weekend.

According to organizer Remko Bicentini, the event is already fostering unity among communities. “The teams prepared very well, and that was clear from their play. What’s even more important is that neighborhoods are supporting each other, making this a success for all children, not just their own,” he said.

More Than Just Football

The project emphasizes more than competition. Fun, teamwork, sportsmanship, and respect are key values. Parents play a vital role by encouraging and supporting their children throughout the tournament. “Participation is more important than winning,” Bicentini stressed. “Children learn what it means to win, lose, and cooperate. A bonus-malus system highlights values, norms, and fair play.”

The initiative serves two main goals: encouraging children to pursue sports and healthy lifestyles, while also raising awareness of their social responsibility.

Keeping Youth on the Right Path

Bicentini underlined the urgency of the project: “There are families who cannot afford sports fees, whose children sometimes go to school without breakfast or are left bored. That’s when the risk of going down the wrong path arises. Children need goals, something to strive for, to build a better future.”

Participation in the tournament is free, but youngsters must stick to agreements. Project ambassador Sharethsie Dometilia added: “We want children to take responsibility not only on the field, but also in their families, at school, and in their neighborhoods.”