Brazilian star Leo Moura attends Rio launch
Flamengo player Leo Moura and Homeless World Cup ambassador Michelle attended the official launch of the Rio 2010 Homeless World Cup. You can see the pictures from the launch here.
The Flamego F.C. right back believes that the world class, international, football tournament, which will unite 64 nations in Brazil from 19-26 September 2010, can be powerful tool for reintegration and self-esteem, as well a bridge for a player to move into the football world.
“I had that dream. This only happens if you have the will to fight hard. The Rio 2010 Homeless World Cup is a noble cause and I am very proud to have been chosen to take part. Football changed my life and it can change the life of many.”
Leo Moura met two ex-Homeless World Cup stars from Team Brazil now leading extraordinary lives.
Player Michele da Silva said: “I was born in the community of Cidade de Deus and I thank everybody for this opportunity. I took part in a Bola Pra frente tournament and I was chosen to play in Denmark. From there, I went to Germany and ended up wearing the Brazil national top for the under 20s category.”
Player Eduardo Fausto da Silva said: “I was living on the streets and ended up being admitted into a psychiatric hospitals 5 times. Nowadays, I thank God for the opportunities that I have had to play with the Homeless World Cup tournament.” Eduardo now lives and works in Copacabana and is married with a 2-year old son.