Mas (11), Jayden (12) and Lamar (11) all light fireworks sometimes. But today they would rather be here playing football than walking outside with a lighter. “Playing football is the most fun in my life,” says Lamar.
Youth worker Jerrol Lashley looks on proudly. “I’m sure we can’t completely prevent fireworks from being set off, but we can offer a counterpart so that they have different things to look forward to,” he says.
12-year-old Jesse stands along the line with a ball at his foot. “If this weren’t here… I’d be bored at home.” When asked if he also sets off fireworks, he wisely falls silent. But that may also be because his mother is listening two meters away.
More than just football
In the Krommenie sports hall, the young people show their tricks on the field and receive lessons from StreetKings Edward van Gils and Issy Hitman. There will also be an artist rapping, good food and various information stands. The event is organized by Team Youth Work Incluzio Zaanstad in collaboration with the Zaans Sportbedrijf.
Non-football players have also been considered. “There is kickboxing for women, because we also believe it is very important to increase resilience for women, especially in this time of femicide and street harassment,” said Lashley.
In addition, he wants the event to contribute to more contact between young workers, their parents and the street. “We want to offer perspective to the young people of Zaanstad during this Christmas season.”
Similar events will follow in Zaanstad later this week.