Futkaleros play – and pay – it forward

Futkal founder Peter Amores and senior futkaleros hold football clinic for DHL Express employees and their children during the Sama-Sama Games 2014 in Boracay. Photo by Bob Manzano/DHL Express

First published in the Good News Section, The Philippine Star, 19 May 2014

Six years ago, Mark Dennis Balbin started his journey in street football when he became a member of Tondo Futkaleros, a team mentored by seasoned player Peter Amores under his Football sa Kalye (FutKal) program.

Now 23, Balbin – like many of his contemporaries – has become a mentor, sharing his knowledge of the game with a new generation of futkaleros, not just in Tondo but in many other disadvantaged communities in the country.

“I guess they are all inspired to teach football to the next generation, and we saw the potential. It’s a good way to get the communities to work together,” Amores said during the Sama-Sama Games held earlier this month in Boracay.

“As the program gets bigger and the kids get older, they pass on and continue with the program,” he added.

Balbin said he volunteered to conduct street football clinics for young children as he understands how it can help develop a person’s values and character.

“The FutKal program is very effective for kids,” he told The STAR in Filipino. “It teaches you discipline, respect.”

“Since I have the time, this is what I want to do – share, share, share,” he added.