A march for sport changing lives
Posted on 29/07/2007
The air was filled with energy and anticipation as the 48 national teams of the Homeless World Cup marched united through the streets of Copenhagen before the grand opening on the football pitch at the Town Hall Square.
Players Lounge is vibrating due to the expectations and thrills of the players before the opening march takes off. The Polish team warms up with their football, the Brazilians are dancing to joyful samba rhythms and the German team is correcting their colourful wigs and instruments while waiting for the massive line to start moving. The players of Lithuania and Liberia are having a photo session, showing their nation’s signs in communion, the South African team loudly cheers the Danish players, whilst making yet another party. It’s the buzz we’ve all been waiting for.
Dancing in the streets
Teamguide Ian Nielsen has made sure that all of the players from Serbia, Sweden, Greece and Hong Kong are in place before the departure from Players Lounge.
“It’s been chaotic to gather everyone at the same time. I’ve never tried anything like it!”, he says with a confused yet cheerful smile.
The ruling world champions of Russia lead the impressive parade through the city, guided by Denmark’s biggest samba school Bafodomundo – a 12 man orchestra and 5 exotic dancers - as well as the 500 players are making music and noise in any way they can: tiny German whistles, African horns and Danish football songs to the rhythms of African drums.
Goose bumps gone wild
The Danish national team is the final one to leave Players Lounge and no one can hide their excited smiles.
“The atmosphere is the coolest. And the team of course”, says Danish player Johnny Naldo patting team mate Frank Clifforth on the shoulder as the long line progresses.
You simply can’t help getting goose bumps all over by this overwhelming parade and quite a few of the participants seem touched by the huge set up, the cheering, the lines of cameras and attention from the many spectators. Locals of Copenhagen look down and greet the players from their windows and shop owners are standing amazed in the streets to see the show of flags and feel the vibes. Even the sun is shining as the players approach the Town Hall Square. Homeless World Cup has finally conquered the city.
June Risum Scheibel
