WILLEMSTAD – Former national football coach Remko Bicentini is preparing for the second edition of his social-impact project “Van Straat naar Stadion” (From Street to Stadium), aimed at empowering youth through sport. The announcement was made this week by Fundashon Bicentini in an official press release. 

The street football competition, which debuted last year as the Fundashon Bicentini Street League, will kick off again on September 13 and 14, and will run through May 2026. 

Far more than just a sports initiative, the project uses football as a tool to teach young people in Curaçao values like discipline, respect, and confidence. Through structured training and competitive matches, participants are encouraged to learn how to win and lose gracefully, work as a team, and show respect—lessons Bicentini believes are just as important off the pitch. 

“A key component of the project is the bonus/malus system, which rewards not only performance on the field but also behavior and community involvement,” said Bicentini. “Fair play and discipline are actively promoted.” 

Connecting Youth and Communities 

Beyond individual growth, the project also aims to unite neighborhoods. Each team represents its local community and serves as a positive ambassador for the area. 

“Football becomes a social glue that brings together different cultures and generations,” Bicentini added. 

With its second season, Van Straat naar Stadion continues to grow as a powerful example of how sports can be used to build stronger communities and shape the next generation of responsible young citizens.