At Inter Campus Cuba, fun is the aim
In Inter Campus first visit to Cuba since Fidel Castro’s passing, the city appears as rundown and as fascinating as always. Yet every time they return, they notice social changes as the country evolves: fewer old cars, a few more cash dispenser dotted around and lots of flights coming in from the USA.
Inter Campus begin to work at the Estadio Pedro Marrero on Monday morning, where they’re welcomed by coaches and representatives of the local Asociación de Futbol. In the room we find Raul, Hugo and Joel, two local coaches, Castro, who came in specially from Holguin on behalf of the Eastern provinces, and Alexei, the general coordinator. These five men are the backbone of the operation bringing sport and social aid to children in Cuba. Other coaches interested in Inter Campus methods join the coaches in the room and they’re delighted to share ideas with them.
Inter Campus’ aim here is to restore the fun and educational side to football in a country where all too often it seems winning is the only thing that matters. Success is not just desired; it’s also a yardstick by which every educator is measured. In an extremely egalitarian society, obtaining results is a way to stand out from the crowd.
Of course no one likes losing but there are many other ways to win besides with the final score. A shy child who grows in confidence thanks to his football training or another kid who improves his motor skills by practising with a ball are far greater achievements than any goal scored at the weekend. And these are the values the coaches try to convey both in the classroom and on the pitch, at three centres in Plaza de la Revolucion, Playa and Boyeros.
“Our days are busy and intense but full of smiles and enthusiasm in every session. And if the kids are enjoying themselves, we’ve already won.”
