Kids from social projects meet Brazil beach soccer stars | OneFootball

The organization of the Paraíba World Beach Games held a meeting this Friday (20) between children and teenagers from social projects in João Pessoa and athletes from the Brazilian beach soccer team. The kids took part in activities at the arena set up at Busto de Tamandaré, between the beaches of Tambaú and Cabo Branco.

“It’s a unique opportunity to provide this meeting between our children and teenagers from social projects and the athletes of the Brazilian national team. More than just sport, we’re talking about inspiration, about showing new paths and reinforcing values such as discipline, dedication, and teamwork. This exchange is fundamental for them to believe in their own potential and dream bigger,” said Lindolfo Pires, Secretary of Youth, Sports, and Leisure of Paraíba.

The manager of the beach soccer teams at the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), Lavoisier Freire, also highlighted the importance of the initiative, emphasizing not only the level of competition but also the social impact promoted during the event.

The manager of the Brazilian beach soccer team, Lavoisier FreireCredits: Cristiano Santos / PWBG

“Being at the Paraíba World Beach Games is a huge pleasure. The Beach Soccer Nations Cup, which we are competing in with the Brazilian national team, is a very well-organized competition. It’s already part of the State’s calendar and the invitation made us very happy. We are aware that sport is a great socio-educational tool, capable of transforming realities, including, educating, and developing citizens prepared for life’s challenges. That’s why it was a pleasure to have this contact between the Brazilian Team and these children on this day. And within the proposal of our president, Samir, and our director Mauro Carmelio, this commitment is not just talk—it is one of the central pillars of management. We want these children to dream of one day representing Brazil, and for that,” commented Lavoisier Freire.

The forward and captain of the Brazilian beach soccer team, Rodrigo, emphasized the privilege of participating in the event and the importance of direct contact with the public and with the children, especially those who see the athletes as a source of inspiration for the future.

“It’s a privilege to be here with these passionate fans. We want a structure like this to serve as an example for other places. It’s great to enjoy all of this and this contact with these children as well. I’m from a favela in Rio de Janeiro and it’s interesting to have contact with your idol, whatever the sport,” said Rodrigo.

Children took advantage of the unique opportunity with the national teamCredits: Cristiano Santos / PWBG

One of the participants in the clinic was Maitê Ranulfo, 13 years old. The girl is part of the ADM Mangabeira project in João Pessoa, in futsal.

“I’m finding it amazing. It’s a new experience. I had never had the chance to play beach soccer before. It was really good to have this moment to get to know a new sport. I thank the Brazilian team for teaching us. I couldn’t believe I was living this moment. An opportunity to learn new techniques,” concluded Maitê Ranulfo.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.