F.F.B. Donates Football Gear to Clubs Across the Country

For the past week, the Football Federation of Belize has been distributing equipment across the country. It is part of a FIFA program where football clubs that work with at-risk youths are benefiting from the football gears. But what is the impact on these young people? And how has the FFB decided who gets the gear? News Five’s Duane Moody reports.

Duane Moody, Reporting

The International Olympic Committee donated football equipment to FIFA for its members and Football Federation of Belize was a beneficiary. Approximately thirty thousand dollars worth of gear was distributed to football groups across the country.

Sergio Chuc

Sergio Chuc, President, F.F.B.

“They give it to FIFA to distribute to countries that have been adversely affected by hurricanes, by COVID. The equipment are designed for the most needy and so we had identified several areas within the country, Belize City, Dangriga and some special children’s home where we have been distributing the balls, the cones, the vests and some polo shirts that we got. We are trying to reach as much people as possible and that are really in need.”

F.F.B. Executive member, Marlon Kuylen was responsible for the Belize District distribution. Twenty-two different organizations within impoverish communities were handed the much-needed donations.

Marlon Kuylen

Marlon Kuylen, Executive Member, F.F.B.

“It was scattered from Maskall to Gales Point, Manatee and in between. And well the areas that we were very keen on concentrating on were these gang infested areas. Whilst in the other districts it was easier to concentrate on one central area for people to get their equipment, it was unfortunate and very sad that in Belize City the movement is limited because of turf. So we had to go into the trenches and go to these areas and distribute the equipment. I can tell you on a personal note that it was bittersweet to me because there was a sense of gratification that you were in a position to help and the look on the kids’ faces and even the people that helped organize and have these academies.”

Kuylen says that there is need for additional equipment to assist many more young people. He speaks to the impact of the donation on these communities.

Marlon Kuylen

“We hope that it gives the youths and the people that help organize them hope. I know sometimes they feel destitute – for the lack of a better word – and feel there is not enough help out there. And they are right in some instances, they are not getting the help they need, but I am hoping that this is the beginning. We have a very good working relationship with the government of the day and it’s now time, because we realise where the needs are, and it is time now that we go into the trenches and do more in those areas.”

Duane Moody for News Five.