WILLEMSTAD – Mahuma secured a dramatic 11–10 victory over Rio Canario in an exciting and closely contested match held as part of the Van Straat naar Stadion project by Fundashon Bicentini, an initiative aimed at connecting young people through sports.
The field in Mahuma was charged with tension as the home team adopted an attacking approach against Rio Canario. After Mahuma built a commanding 8–3 lead, Rio Canario mounted an impressive comeback with a series of well-executed goals. Despite their strong rally, they fell just short of equalizing, with Mahuma ultimately holding on for the narrow win.
Project Connects Neighborhoods Through Sports
Van Straat naar Stadion is a social development project run by Fundashon Bicentini that seeks to bring neighborhoods across Curaçao together through sports. The program focuses on teaching children and young people important life skills, including teamwork, coping with both victory and defeat, and taking responsibility.
A strong emphasis is placed on values such as respect, discipline, and fair play, with sports used as a tool for positive social engagement.
Street Coaches Guide Youth On and Off the Field
Street coaches play a central role in mentoring participants, both during matches and in daily life. Street coach Shurviensley Denisia from Mahuma is highlighted as a role model, placing strong emphasis on responsibility within the family, at school, and in the wider community.
“Participation is more important than winning,” said Remko Bicentini of Fundashon Bicentini. According to him, the real success of the project lies in its positive impact on young people and their neighborhoods, rather than the final score on the field.