THE VOICE OF THE CAPTAINS
Diego from Peru after partecipating as a spectator in the past editions joins with his national team at the World Cup for the first time.
Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your football career and experience as a captain?
My name is Diego Cotrina, I am the captain of the Peruvian team that will compete in this edition of the Katowice Internationals World Cup. I am a football fan and I play amateur and for fun with my friends almost every week.
How do you feel about representing your country as captain of the football team in this international tournament?
I am very proud to be able to represent our nation over 11,000 kilometers away with my teammates. Very happy and eager to be able to participate in the tournament.
Have you participated in this tournament before and how do you think that experience will help you lead your team this time?
No, in fact, this is the first time that Peru has entered the tournament, but we really want to do it and I hope to lead our team to a good position. I know it will be difficult, as many established teams have been playing for a long time, but we plan to leave everything on the field.
As the captain of a team that brings together people from the same country but different locations, how do you like to foster unity and team spirit among players?
Football, like other team sports, unites people and blurs the differences we have. Inside the field, there is only one ball and two groups of people with a clear goal in mind and willing to give everything to achieve it.
How do you think the multicultural aspect of this tournament contributes to the overall excitement and competitiveness of the event?
The multiculturalism of this event is what makes it unique. This is not just football, but an important window to show your country, and your culture, to unite people, make new friends, and why not, also have a laugh.
How does being part of a multicultural event benefit you personally, both as a player and as an individual?
It helps me remember that I am not alone here, but that many other people left their country in search of new opportunities and who continue to fight for their dreams. It is a very comforting and eye-opening experience.
What does it mean to you to represent your country on the international stage and show off your football skills?
It really means a great honor. At this point, leaving everything on the field is not only the only option but a form of retribution and sacrifice for the country that one day saw us leave and that we remember with great affection today.
How do you balance the pressure to excel individually with the responsibility of leading your team to success?
For me, in this tournament, the goals of every team are above personal interests. I want to leave the name of Peru high, I don’t care about getting some personal recognition.
Are there any specific cultural traditions or rituals that your team follows before or after games to build camaraderie and maintain team spirit?
As it is our first time participating, not at the moment, but surely some cabals will be born in the tournament.
As captain, how do you promote diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect within the team, both on and off the pitch?
I try to focus the team on the similarities, rather than the differences. Highlighting respect for others and different ideas.
What message would you like to convey to football fans, especially those who don’t know or know very little about this tournament?
Let them join and try to participate in some way. I have participated passively as a spectator in past editions and I have had a lot of fun, more than a championship it is a party of all flags, religions, and races. A true multicultural event.
Wisdom from Nigeria thinks that football or sport in general is a unifier.
Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your football career and experience as a captain?
My name is Wisdom, I’m from Nigeria in Western Africa. I’m a creative and attacking midfielder with quick feet and flair. I have played at various youth levels in my country and captained my university school football team. I like to lead on the field of play and encourage players to give their best. I believe in hard work, dedication, and discipline.
How do you feel about representing your country as captain of the soccer team in this international tournament?
Representing my country is a wonderful opportunity for me. It feels like being called to play for the national team. It is such an honor to be the captain also, and I plan to give my best.
Have you participated in this tournament before and how do you think that experience will help you lead your team this time?
I participated in the last edition of the tournament, and it was a nice experience for me. I believe I can transfer this knowledge to my teammates and it will help us in the tournament.
As the captain of a team that brings together people from the same country but different locations, how do you like to foster unity and team spirit among players?
Football and sport, in general, is a unifier. Also, Nigeria is a very diverse and multi-ethnic country, so this tournament bringing us all together is something to be appreciated irrespective of the outcome of the tournament.
How do you think the multicultural aspect of this tournament contributes to the overall excitement and competitiveness of the event?
This tournament brings people from all parts of the world together and my experience from the previous edition, it promotes peace, unity, and togetherness.
How does being part of a multicultural event benefit you personally, both as a player and as an individual?
It allows me to meet new people, make new friends, and develop myself personally as an athlete.
What does it mean to you to represent your country on the international stage and show off your soccer skills?
Like I said earlier, it is a joy, and looking forward to it.
How do you balance the pressure to excel individually with the responsibility of leading your team to success?
I let the game lead and do the talking on the pitch. One step at a time from the first minute till the final whistle.
Are there any specific cultural traditions or rituals that your team follows before or after games to build camaraderie and maintain team spirit?
Nothing special, just some motivational chants and prayers before and after the game for a positive outing.
As captain, how do you promote diversity, inclusion and mutual respect within the team, both on and off the pitch?
Lead by example, respect everyone, and always listen to suggestions & opinions.
What message would you like to convey to football fans, especially those who don’t know or know very little about this tournament?
I will encourage them to come out and watch the games and be part of history. Smiles!
David from Mexico puts friendship above all aspects: "No matter the results, we will still be friends. "
Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your football career and experience as a captain?
My name is David Huerta, I’m from Mexico City but living in Warsaw for more than 10 years. My whole life I’ve been playing football, I played professionally back in my country when I was 17 years old. I played in the 3rd and 2nd league.
In Poland, I’m the captain of a team in Etnoliga league, we just won the 3rd place of the season which is something amazing!
How do you feel about representing your country as captain of the football team in this international tournament?
Representing Mexico is something unique and something that I’m really proud of! I’m a little bit nervous because this tournament has a lot of great players but I believe this year we have good players and we will do our best to put Mexico in first place.
Have you participated in this tournament before and how do you think that experience will help you lead your team this time?
I participated only once, last year it was my first time at this tournament. I believe I will be able to motivate my team even if we are going to lose matches. I have experience in motivating players and how to read matches to control the game.
As the captain of a team that brings together people from the same country but different locations, how do you like to foster unity and team spirit among players?
With Mexican people it’s easy, most of us are really easy going outside and inside the pitch. We already know all of us so it will be great to be together again to play football. No matter the results, we will still be friends.
How do you think the multicultural aspect of this tournament contributes to the overall excitement and competitiveness of the event?
It’s the most prestigious event with the most talented players that I’ve played in Poland so far. This motivates us and encourages our team to look for a win in every match. We are aware that is not going to be easy, but we are ready!
How does being part of a multicultural event benefit you personally, both as a player and as an individual?
I personally love to interact with people from different backgrounds and nationalities, so with this tournament, I learn about tolerance and respect outside and inside the pitch.
What does it mean to you to represent your country on the international stage and show off your football skills?
Since I was a child, my dream was always to be a professional football player and to play at a World Cup. With this tournament, I kinda accomplished my dream of representing Mexico by playing football. It’s something amazing!
How do you balance the pressure to excel individually with the responsibility of leading your team to success?
I’m aware that a lot of pressure will be put on me as a captain, so I need to make sure to remain calm even if the results are not going the way we want to. If I’m positive, my team will gain confidence and we will be able to overcome the obstacles.
Are there any specific cultural traditions or rituals that your team follows before or after games to build camaraderie and maintain team spirit?
We don’t really have a kind of a ritual, but we love to see Mexican fans shouting “Mexico, Mexico”. This motivates us a lot!
As captain, how do you promote diversity, inclusion and mutual respect within the team, both on and off the pitch?
All of our players come from different cities in Mexico. We know we are different in certain things, but we need to put aside our differences and realize that we are representing Mexico.
We all are equal in our team.
What message would you like to convey to football fans, especially those who don’t know or know very little about this tournament?
If you love football you should totally come to this event and see different play styles. Each team has its own style, strengths, and weaknesses. You will learn a lot from outstanding players! Probably this is the closest you can be to a real World Cup scenario.
Kweku, knows as James, from Ghana talking about the tournament: "It brings everyone together as a unity".
Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your football career and experience as a captain?
I go by the name Kweku Chief, but many people know me as James. I am proudly a Ghanaian and I have been playing football since the age of 7 years. My first ever football memory was playing for a team called Future Leaders, I spent nearly 2 years there. I really traveled a lot with Future Leaders and that’s where I got my first ever football name “Figo”. It just happened one day: I came to training with a Portugal jersey and on the back it had the name “Figo”, so hence it kinda became a name everyone started calling me.
Around 2009 I moved to a club called Cosmos Football Club after successfully passing trials. Cosmos FC was every kid’s dream in the area where I grew up due to the team’s high standard level and also the opportunity to play in Ghana Juvenile football team.
In 2011 my family relocated to Qatar- over there I had the opportunity to play for Al Ahli FC, also I captained a group of friends to Copa Coca-Cola tournaments, where we got 2nd place out of 32 teams.
Football has been always part of me, I believe if I had taken it seriously I would have become professional football as I had the potential but sometimes things always don’t go our way.
How do you feel about representing your country as captain of the football team in this international tournament?
Being a captain of a team is a great feeling, I feel very proud and most importantly the opportunity to lead a team to a common goal and do everything in unity is a great joy.
Have you participated in this tournament before and how do you think that experience will help you lead your team this time?
Yes, this will be my 3rd time participating in this beautiful event, for the past two editions I have realized any team has the potential of winning the tournament. All we need to do is to have a simple plan and tactics and most importantly to believe in ourselves. If we manage to develop these traits I believe we can further this time around.
As the captain of a team that brings together people from the same country but different locations, how do you like to foster unity and team spirit among players?
It can be difficult sometimes due to several reasons: the common thing I do is to establish clear goals, make sure we have effective communication, do team activities together, and also assign a role to each person in the team so that everyone feels important.
How does being part of a multicultural event benefit you personally, both as a player and as an individual?
It brings everyone together as a unity. I have the opportunity to meet people from different countries, learn new cultures, and also to grow my network. There’s no greater joy to see a lot of nationalities in one place, as for me it’s an opportunity that I won’t take for granted.
What does it mean to you to represent your country on the international stage and show off your football skills?
It’s a moment of pride and honor to be chosen to represent Ghana. I will do it with all my heart and passion. Just like how our national pledge goes; I promise on my honor to be faithful and loyal to Ghana my Motherland. I pledge myself to the service of Ghana, with all my strength and with all my heart. I promise to hold in high esteem our heritage, won for us through the blood and toil of our fathers; and I pledge myself in all things to uphold and defend the good name of Ghana. So help me God.
How do you balance the pressure to excel individually with the responsibility of leading your team to success?
Honestly, I am the type of person that I am not bothered by pressure, I know I have a strong mindset, and the ability to embrace teamwork and I always tell my teammates for us to go out there and have fun. That’s the beauty of football.
Are there any specific cultural traditions or rituals that your team follows before or after games to build camaraderie and maintain team spirit?
We always sing, it is a Ghanaian thing. We call it JAMA.
As captain, how do you promote diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect within the team, both on and off the pitch?
I always lead by example, such as respecting everyone, speaking no evil and showing respect, spreading love and kindness.
What message would you like to convey to football fans, especially those who don’t know or know very little about this tournament?
That we should take the most advantage of this upcoming tournament as much as we can because this is a community whereby we are all there for one another. For me, I see it more as a networking opportunity.
Diego from Colombia says: " the most important thing is to respect the representatives of other countries as they are, with their thoughts, behaviors, and beliefs"
Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your football career and experience as a captain?
Hello, my name is Diego, I have been living in Poland for about 4 years and as a football player, I have done it all my life, which has given me many experiences and knowledge that for some time now I have been sharing with more people and I earned the trust of my teammates, thus being captain, trying to provide confidence, security, and passion for this sport, as well as for the objectives set in the team.
How do you feel about representing your country as captain of the football team in this international tournament?
It is a nice experience and I feel proud to be able to bring together Colombians living all over Poland to represent our country doing what we like the most, which is playing football, as well as making new friends.
Have you participated in this tournament before and how do you think that experience will help you lead your team this time?
I have participated on two occasions, once as captain of the Colombian team in 2021 and another as a foreign player in 2022. The two editions have given me a lot of information about what the teams are like and how these matches could be faced. Positively, in this way, I will try to guide my team to play according to what the game demands and always keep in mind that we must enjoy the game and do it with our hearts.
As the captain of a team that brings together people from the same country but different locations, how do you like to foster unity and team spirit among players?
We try to hold prior meetings to get to know each other, as well as dinners and other activities that allow us to get to know each other not only on the playing field but as people, in this way, we create a friendship that will be taken to the field and will provide us with better results.
How do you think the multicultural aspect of this tournament contributes to the overall excitement and competitiveness of the event?
It contributes to the extent that it makes us feel that we can stand out within many cultures and many styles of play, which makes us feel that we left Colombian football on high and that we excelled playing.
How does being part of a multicultural event benefit you personally, both as a player and as an individual?
It benefits me in that it will bring me joy, and it will allow me to meet new people and feel accompanied and motivated by compatriots who come from different places to support us.
What does it mean to you to represent your country on the international stage and show off your football skills?
It means an opportunity to make our talent known to the world, in addition to generating a positive image in football so that they can see that quality players are made in our country not only in professional football but also in amateur football.
How do you balance the pressure to excel individually with the responsibility of leading your team to success?
I always try to play as a team and make everyone feel that we are contributing to the objectives, even if they don’t stand out individually if the team is doing well, then everything is fine, the collective matters more than the individual for me, if I can contribute, even with goals, assists or defense, by any measure, will be fine.
Are there any specific cultural traditions or rituals that your team follows before or after games to build camaraderie and maintain team spirit?
We always keep joy wherever we go, be it with dance, music, or jokes, but always smile and show the world that our culture is joy, passion, and friendship.
As captain, how do you promote diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect within the team, both on and off the pitch?
It is important that, beyond the results on the field, the rival be respected, we have a negative history that forces us to do things well and to vindicate ourselves, which is a bigger task for us because we are good people than We enjoy playing football but above all, we respect our rivals, these being our friends, so the most important thing is to respect the representatives of other countries as they are, with their thoughts, behaviors, and beliefs.
What message would you like to convey to football fans, especially those who don’t know or know very little about this tournament?
I would like to say that this is an event with a lot of potential, that in a few years, it could be one of the most important at a national level and that from now on, we are making an effort to make it more enjoyable, not only for the players but also for the fans. that they will be able to have a space of joy, culture, and many emotions, which is perfect for learning more about other cultures and making friends.
"As a team, we are like a family. Everyone loves and respects each other" (Ali Najafov from Azerbaijan)
Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your football career and experience as a captain?
Well I am Ali Najafov.I have founded FC LAND OF FIRE. We play at the Playarena PL Ekstraliga. I sometimes play with my team but generally, I like to organize my team and support them outside of the pitch.
How do you feel about representing your country as captain of the soccer team in this international tournament?
Of course, it is an honor to be the captain of our national team in this tournament. I am really excited. We are eager to get this cup. Of course, all teams want to make it real.
Have you participated in this tournament before and how do you think that experience will help you lead your team this time?
We have participated in this tournament before. I believe this experience shows us what we need to do to win this year.
As the captain of a team that brings together people from the same country but different locations, how do you like to foster unity and team spirit among players?
Obviously, I am very happy that a large part of the players who will play in our national team are from the FC LAND OF FIRE. It’s a sign that we’re doing some things right and motivating our players to play together and fight for the team. I want to take a moment to express my sincere congratulations and best wishes for the upcoming tournament to my team. I believe that they will do a great job and will continue to make us proud.
How do you think the multicultural aspect of this tournament contributes to the overall excitement and competitiveness of the event?
Most of the people playing in the tournament know each other. After the tournament is over, people meet each other and establish friendships. They greet each other when they meet on the road. I think it is a great success and honor to be able to do this. However, football is a game that loves competition as much as friendships. I hope everything will be fine and the one who deserves to win.
How does being part of a multicultural event benefit you personally, both as a player and as an individual?
As I mentioned above. Making new friendships is important for us. Gathering people from our own country and having fun together is another good detail for us.
How do you balance the pressure to excel individually with the responsibility of leading your team to success?
As a team, we are like a family. Everyone loves and respects each other. Those who are in the game and those who are waiting outside, everyone focuses on the win. It makes everyone happy to congratulate each other when they score a goal, to hug each other, and to be fighting for a cause. When there is love and togetherness within the team, it is not a situation to be managed. Everyone is trying to do their best. Sometimes we win, sometimes we lose, which is something that happens in football.
Are there any specific cultural traditions or rituals that your team follows before or after games to build camaraderie and maintain team spirit?
Before the game, we will gather in a circle to participate in a team motivation activity led by our captain. This will help us prepare for the game and promote a positive team culture. Additionally, praying before the game is one of our team’s special habits.
As captain, how do you promote diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect within the team, both on and off the pitch?
First of all, I’m glad that I didn’t think about it. All my players show high respect for each other. My players have high character. We believe whole heartedly that we will bring color as a whole team to this tournament.
What message would you like to convey to football fans, especially those who don’t know or know very little about this tournament?
There is no need to wait for UEFA’s next World Cup organization to see the excitement and unity in the World Cup. It is enough for them to come to watch us. We believe that this year will be better than every other year.
"..And for my football skills... I'm still looking for them... hahaha I prefer to be known as Mariano, the Argentine who is a teacher and tour guide in Kraków"..
Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your football career and experience as a captain?
My name is Mariano, I am 50 years old, the father of 3 boys, Santi 21, Nahuel 6, and Lautaro 4. I have been a Physical Education Teacher and coach for approximately 25 years. I have been living in Kraków for 9 years where I am a tour guide. Always linked to sport in one way or another. I’ve been playing football since I was very young and my first experience as a Captain was at the age of 12 when my teammates chose me from the club where I was playing at that time, called Excursionistas, in Buenos Aires. Something that I remember very well because you feel very proud in those moments that are recorded. From then on, at different times and with the team, I was lucky to be named captain, and with successes and mistakes, always tried to do the best possible for the team.
How do you feel about representing your country as captain of the soccer team in this international tournament?
The truth is that it is very nice. It is always a pride to wear the colors of your country, and if you also represent it in an international tournament, much more so. So I could tell you that mainly I feel very proud and I hope I can live up to it.
Have you participated in this tournament before and how do you think that experience will help you lead your team this time?
It is the first time we participate. So we hope it will be fully positive in every way!
As the captain of a team that brings together people from the same country but different locations, how do you like to foster unity and team spirit among players?
In our case, luckily we are all in the same city, Kraków, which means that we see each other quite often, we share many moments together and not only playing football, which we also do.
How do you think the multicultural aspect of this tournament contributes to the overall excitement and competitiveness of the event?
I think that sport itself is very important to generate multicultural union. It generates different emotions, for the simple fact of competing for something or for an objective. And as long as it’s loyal, it’s going to be positive in every way.
How does being part of a multicultural event benefit you personally, both as a player and as an individual?
I think that as I said before, sport is a fundamental tool for life. And being part of such a multicultural event, much more. Especially when you live in another country, like most of us. And in these events, you can hear different stories from many who left their places to look for something better and that makes you realize that there are many like you with similar and interesting stories to share.
What does it mean to you to represent your country on the international stage and show off your football skills?
It is always a pride to represent your country anywhere and when you live abroad that feeling becomes much stronger. And as for my skills… I’m still looking for them… hahaha I prefer to be known as Mariano, the Argentine who is a teacher and tour guide in Kraków. 🙂
How do you balance the pressure to excel individually with the responsibility of leading your team to success?
I personally don’t want to stand out individually. I want to do the best for the team and enjoy the moment. For me, it will be very special because it will be the first time that I play with my eldest son, who is 21 years old, in an international tournament. I especially want to enjoy that. So being a positive “leader” is my main goal for this team. If success comes as a result, it will be more than welcome!
Are there any specific cultural traditions or rituals that your team follows before or after games to build camaraderie and maintain team spirit?
As a tradition, I could tell you the “Asado”. We get together a lot to share those moments and eat something delicious on the grill. And for the matches, the music is more than motivating for us! Listen to some Cumbia or quartet that are traditional Argentine.
As captain, how do you promote diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect within the team, both on and off the pitch?
Promoting respect seems to be the main thing. Starting from this important concept, the rest comes alone.
What message would you like to convey to football fans, especially those who don’t know or know very little about this tournament?
Football fans, just enjoy this beautiful sport!! The colors, cities or countries don’t matter… enjoy this, it’s very nice. And if there is the possibility of participating in such an event, do not hesitate, because they are unique experiences!
"It is an honor and I'm so proud, taking responsibility to present Algeria is not easy, many strong feelings and happiness!"
Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your football career and experience as a captain?
Hello, my name is Abdelkader the captain of the Algerian team here in Katowice since 2018 since the first tournament. My football career started when I was a young boy, around 20 years ago. I started playing with my local team city in Algeria, where I played in the 2nd and 4th leagues there as well I played here in Poland and France with many teams.
How do you feel about representing your country as captain of the soccer team in this international tournament?
It is an honor and I’m so proud, taking responsibility to present Algeria is not easy, many strong feelings and happiness.
Have you participated in this tournament before and how do you think that experience will help you lead your team this time?
We participated since this tournament started, we were twice times at the final and we didn’t make it but I hope this time gonna be our first trophy.
As the captain of a team that brings together people from the same country but different locations, how do you like to foster unity and team spirit among players?
Players in my team are my friends outside of football, we always have meetings and strong friendships between us and we don’t feel any difference because we all represent Algeria.
How do you think the multicultural aspect of this tournament contributes to the overall excitement and competitiveness of the event?
It’s great to see people from all over the world coming together for this event. It adds to the excitement and competitiveness of the tournament.
How does being part of a multicultural event benefit you personally, both as a player and as an individual?
Being part of a multicultural event allows you to learn about different cultures and perspectives. It can also help you improve your communication skills and make new friends.
What does it mean to you to represent your country on the international stage and show off your soccer skills?
It’s an honor to represent my country and show off my soccer skills on the international stage. It’s a great opportunity to showcase the talent and passion of our team.
How do you balance the pressure to excel individually with the responsibility of leading your team to success?
It’s important to focus on the team’s goals and work together to achieve them. While individual performance is important, it’s more important to work together and support each other to achieve success as a team.
Are there any specific cultural traditions or rituals that your team follows before or after games to build camaraderie and maintain team spirit?
Our team likes to have a meal together before games to build camaraderie and maintain team spirit. We also like to listen to music and dance to get pumped up before games.
As captain, how do you promote diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect within the team, both on and off the pitch?
As captain, I promote diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect by leading by example and treating everyone with respect. I encourage open communication and make sure everyone feels heard and valued. I also make sure that everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute and succeed.
What message would you like to convey to football fans, especially those who don’t know or know very little about this tournament?
I would like to convey that this tournament is a celebration of the world’s best football talent. It’s an opportunity to see some of the most exciting and skilled players from around the world compete against each other. It’s also a chance to learn about different cultures and perspectives and to come together as a global community.
"We represent one country, one flag, and the same colors and even if we are from different locations it’s enough for us to be one strong unity and it brings us even closer!"
Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your football career and experience as a captain?
My name is Anis and I’m representing the Tunisian team. My football career started in Tunisia, where I was playing with my city team ES Feriana, afterwards, I moved to Poland and I’m still playing in amateur leagues as life without football is nothing. As a Tunisian captain, I could get the bronze medal with my team during the first edition of the Katowice World Cup in 2018. However, the last 2 or 3 editions were unlucky for us as we always lose on penalties (mostly quarterfinals). So, I hope this year will be more successful for me and my team!
How do you feel about representing your country as captain of the football team in this international tournament?
It has been always an honor to represent Tunisia and carry its flag. It is hard to explain that feeling but I’m really lucky to have the chance to wear Tunisian’s colors.
Have you participated in this tournament before and how do you think that experience will help you lead your team this time?
Yes, for us it’s already a tradition! We didn’t miss any edition and hopefully, we will not I would say that we know what we can expect and that every team is trying hard to get the best players and go as far as possible in the tournament and I hope that with the experience we could get during the last few years, we will manage to go at least to the semi-finals.
As the captain of a team that brings together people from the same country but different locations, how do you like to foster unity and team spirit among players?
We represent one country, one flag, and the same colors and even if we are from different locations it’s enough for us to be one strong unity and it brings us even closer!
How do you think the multicultural aspect of this tournament contributes to the overall excitement and competitiveness of the event?
Most of us are friends, co-workers, and teammates and we know each other very well. However, during the tournament, only one thing counts – your team, your country! Of course, this doesn’t change anything between us but when playing everyone is just focusing on winning the game and leading his team to the final!
How does being part of a multicultural event benefit you personally, both as a player and as an individual?
The most important for me and most of us are our connections with others. This event brings us closer and gives us the possibilitie to know a lot of fantastic people, make new friends and meet those that we didn’t see for months!
It’s also a great time where I can feel as if I was just in Tunisia!
What does it mean to you to represent your country on the international stage and show off your football skills?
As I’ve already mentioned, this is a huge honor to represent Tunisia and a big responsibility for me and my team as players and individuals.
Are there any specific cultural traditions or rituals that your team follows before or after games to build camaraderie and maintain team spirit?
The most important for us is to be together, before, during, and after games. We support each other and we listen to some Tunisian songs that motivate us and keep us on the track till the end. As captain, how do you promote diversity, inclusion and mutual respect within the team, both on and off the pitch? For us being different, doesn’t mean worse or better. What counts, are our actions and how we treat others. If we want to be respected we must respect others. If we want to be accepted and included we must accept others and the fact that they are different! These rules must be followed on and
What message would you like to convey to football fans, especially those who don’t know or know very little about this tournament?
I would like just to tell them, come and bring your families, kids, and friends! It’s really a great time that we all can spend together. This is something amazing that everyone needs to see up close. Thank you, Marco, thank you to everyone who could contribute to the tournament and make this happen, and good luck to every team!
"To represent the Ukrainian flag is the additional honor"
Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your football career and experience as a captain?
I am Iurii. I’ve been living in Silesia since 2015. I play football when I have some time.
How do you feel about representing your country as captain of the football team in this international tournament?
This tournament gives a good opportunity to spend a good time and learn new interesting people, and colleagues. Also, it helps to feel yourself as a part of a big community.
Have you participated in this tournament before and how do you think that experience will help you lead your team this time?
We took part in all editions of the tournament in Katowice. Every time it is very difficult to organize everything among the team.
As the captain of a team that brings together people from the same country but different locations, how do you like to foster unity and team spirit among players?
The team spirit is on the highest level. The teams are highly motivated. The fight on the pitch never ends without injuries.
How do you think the multicultural aspect of this tournament contributes to the overall excitement and competitiveness of the event?
The multicultural aspect makes a great influence on everything. It’s great. We feel ourselves closer to the different cultures of all over the world.
What does it mean to you to represent your country on the international stage and show off your football skills?
Playing soccer makes always fun. It doesn’t matter where you play. To represent the Ukrainian flag is the additional honor.
What message would you like to convey to football fans, especially those who don’t know or know very little about this tournament?
For the fans, I would like to say, that the tournament is growing. The better players are coming year to year. Maybe one day the scouts or football coaches can come to the tournament and invite the participants to start or go on the journey on the professional level in Poland or abroad.
"Ven y disfruta de la fiesta del fútbol!"
That’s the message that Adil Benhammou Mimun, captain of Spain, wanted to convey to football fans, especially for those who don’t know or know very little about this tournament.
In the next paragraphs you can read his interview.
Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your football career and experience as a captain?
My name is Adil and I’ve been playing football since I can remember, from a little child my dad was always taking a ball with us to the beach, and from there, it just kept growing. Later on and during the years I’ve always followed Real Madrid and my role model as captain was Sergio Ramos, who inspired me during my “career” and end up organizing la Escuadra Española to represent our country in Katowice WC, it’s gonna be the 3rd edition we will take part, amazing experience and highly recommended!
How do you feel about representing your country as captain of the football team in this international tournament?
It’s a unique experience, being able to gather with so many different countries and cultures and do what we like the most, playing football! It’s a true honor to defend the colours of my country!
Have you participated in this tournament before and how do you think that experience will help you lead your team this time?
It’s gonna be the 3rd time and after those editions, I believe, as we say in Spanish: a la tercera va la vencida! We will do our best to get to the medals and the trophy, we have reinforced the Team after previous experiences.
As the captain of a team that brings together people from the same country but different locations, how do you like to foster unity and team spirit among players?
Gathering as much as possible, by playing friendly games against other combinations or eventually meeting up for a coffee or grabbing a bite.
How do you think the multicultural aspect of this tournament contributes to the overall excitement and competitiveness of the event?
Basically brings it all in, everyone feels the motivation and “pressure” to represent their country, hence the competition and competitive aspects are 100 % present.
How does being part of a multicultural event benefit you personally, both as a player and as an individual?
It enriches all of us, personally, it helps networking and getting to know people from different backgrounds and with a one an only passion, football!
What does it mean to you to represent your country on the international stage and show off your football skills?
An honour, it’s a big event recognized among football lovers here in Poland and it’s unique to be able to participate in it.
How do you balance the pressure to excel individually with the responsibility of leading your team to success?
The first doesn’t apply, I always look for the best decision and result which will bring the Team to glory, trying to create a positive atmosphere and good vibe.
Are there any specific cultural traditions or rituals that your team follows before or after games to build camaraderie and maintain team spirit?
Oe oe oe! Oe…oee! Haha tbh, we shall have some mottos and songs before each game to bring up the spirit and give it all in the court.
As captain, how do you promote diversity, inclusion and mutual respect within the team, both on and off the pitch?
Respect is the key for any Team to success, I make sure there is 0 tolerance for any misbehaviour or disrespect among the teammates.
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