WILLEMSTAD – The School Sport Department of Fundashon Desaroyo Deportivo Kòrsou (FDDK) has successfully concluded the pilot phase of its new initiative, School Sport 16+, with an exciting indoor soccer tournament. The program was designed to engage students aged 16 and older—an age group often overlooked in traditional school sports activities. 

Five teams from four secondary schools participated in the inaugural edition: Maris Stella SBO, RK MTS, the University of Curaçao, and Sint Jozef VSBO. Over the course of three weeks, students competed in a series of spirited matches, marked by sportsmanship and energy. The tournament culminated in a thrilling final, where Sint Jozef VSBO claimed the championship title. Maris Stella SBO secured second place, while RK MTS finished in third. 

This pilot represents a significant step toward expanding structured sports opportunities for older students. According to FDDK’s School Sports Coordinator Gersinio Constantia, the program revealed both athletic talent and a strong desire among participants for connection and healthy competition. 

“We’ve seen that this age group not only has tremendous potential, but also a deep need for belonging and sports engagement,” said Constantia. “This positive response motivates us to do even more.” 

Encouraged by the results, FDDK plans to expand the program in the next academic year with more participating schools and a broader range of sports. 

Regular School Sports Program Resumes in September with 11 Disciplines 

In addition to the 16+ initiative, FDDK’s regular School Sports Program for primary (FO) and secondary (VO) education will resume in September. This program plays a crucial role in qualifying young athletes for the upcoming Inter-Island Games 2026. 

For the 2025–2026 school year, students will be able to compete in the following eleven sports: 

Basketball (FO and VO) 

Cruyff Court Football FO (girls) 

Beach Tennis (FO/VO mix) 

Aquathlon (FO/VO mix) 

Athletics (FO/VO mix) 

Volleyball VO (girls) 

Chess (FO/VO mix) 

Cruyff Court Football VO (boys) 

Volleyball FO (boys) 

Dodgeball FO (girls) 

Inter-Island Games 2026 Schedule: 

Bonaire: February 26 – March 1 

Curaçao: March 12 – 15 

Aruba: March 26 – 29 

Through this dynamic and inclusive sports program, FDDK continues to foster youth participation, talent development, and regional collaboration through the power of sports.