Brazil. The land of samba, sun kissed beaches and soccer. So its hard to imagine that somewhere in Brazil there are children who have never played soccer. Hard to imagine, but it is in fact the reality for a handful of boys and girls who are physically handicapped. But no child should have to miss out on the joy of kicking a ball around with friends and so Bota do Mundo was created.
Bota do Mundo – Line Up
Bota do Mundo was inspired by Alexandre Faleiros, a father who created a special boot so that his son could participate in the sport every Brazilian boy dreams of playing. The event is a collaboration between the Associação de Assistência à Criança Deficiente (Association of Assistance for Disabled Children) and Educandário São João Batista, and is run by Smile Flame.
Arena Grêmio
On the 10 December, the second edition of Bota do Mundo was held at Arena Grêmio. The event brought together some of the biggest names in football and local performers such as The Good Samaritans, Samba e Amor, Areal Future and the Carol Dalmoline Dance Group. But the real stars, heroes and legends of the day are the children who took part. A lot can be said about this amazing event but we’ll let the images speak for themselves.
Bota do Mundo – Laughter
Bota do Mundo – Joy
Bota do Mundo – Happiness
Bota do Mundo – Getúlio, the superstar goalkeeper
Bota do Mundo – Champion and Runner-Up
Be sure to visit the organisers’ websites for more information.
Get involved in this great initiative and see you there next year!
Highway to Porto Alegre 