Dubai: A Dubai-based Filipino is collecting used soccer balls in the hope of giving a new spin to the lives of poor boys back home.
Mario Salamat, 42, a graphic designer and certified football coach, said he was so moved by the plight of the children of San Fernando Pampanga in the Philippines that he was motivated to do something for them. The task was not easy, so he had to think of something innovative.
“Most of these children live on river banks in makeshift bamboo homes and are very poor. They do not go to school. When I tried to teach them how to read and write, only a few seemed interested. One day I took a soccer ball and gathered the children to play. The response was good. So the next time I approached them, I said they would have to learn to read and write before they could learn soccer. Soon a dozen kids started going to school,” said Salamat.
As the idea gained momentum, Salamat and his friends founded the Futboleros United, a community-based football association. “The primary aim is to nurture local talent by building a strong football programme in the community. We offer free football clinics for kids in the hope of discovering talent and helping them reach their full potential.” Salamat said the Futboolero’s motto is simple: “Don’t go through life without goals.”
The used soccer balls are a means to achieving these goals. Salamat said donations of used shoes and sports equipment are also accepted, besides balls. “The boys back home cannot afford shoes. So whatever we get, we pass on to them. We do not accept money.” He said the club caters to around 300 children who are also supported by a school. “It’s not just about educating the kids, the mindset of their parents too needs to be changed.”
Note: If you wish to get in touch with Salamat, write to editor@xpress4me.com
