النسخة العربية

Osama Beshnaq, a student at Amman Al-Ahliyya University specializing in directing, has launched a social sports initiative called “Neighborhood Maradona”, aimed at discovering football talents in underprivileged neighborhoods and enhancing their opportunities to join clubs and specialized academies, particularly for children lacking the financial means or proper infrastructure to pursue football professionally.

Beshnaq explained that the idea stemmed from his own childhood dream of becoming a professional footballer, a dream that lacked opportunities in the neighborhoods where he grew up. Motivated by this, he decided to create for other children the opportunities he never had, through an initiative that allows them to showcase their football skills and talents and gain a real chance to be seen and pursue a professional career.

The initiative involves daily visits to different neighborhoods, immersing participants in the authentic atmosphere of local football. The best player in each neighborhood is awarded the title “Neighborhood Maradona”, paying tribute to the legendary Diego Maradona, who began his football journey in the streets, symbolizing hope and ambition for every aspiring grassroots player.

Beshnaq emphasized that the initiative goes beyond sports, aiming to achieve a broader social impact by encouraging children to engage in physical activity away from electronic games, addressing negative challenges such as smoking and drug use, and fostering a spirit of teamwork and cooperation within neighborhoods.

The initiative has received a warm response from families, who welcomed the idea and supported their participating children. Collaborations with sports academies like “Tik Tik City” have also been established, providing scholarships to talented players to join training programs, opening doors for further development and higher-level football opportunities.

Beshnaq noted that the initiative started about two months ago, during which it visited 18–19 neighborhoods, awarded titles to outstanding players, and enabled several children to join sports academies. The initiative also launched a special activity for following the Arab Cup in neighborhoods, broadcasting matches in the streets to foster national and social spirit, bringing children and families together in a festive atmosphere despite the cold.

Participants have expressed immense joy at being part of the initiative and discovering their talents. Ayham Salah, 14, who earned the “Neighborhood Maradona” title, said, “I’ve been playing in the neighborhood for three years, and today I feel amazing because I achieved the Neighborhood Maradona title. I wouldn’t have had this chance without the initiative, and now I can play as if I were a professional footballer.” He added that his parents supported and encouraged him, and seeing his peers celebrate his victory motivated him even further.

Similarly, Wissam Amro, 13, who joined “Nashama Al-Mustaqbal” Club, shared that he was thrilled when the initiative came to his neighborhood. He explained, “The challenges I faced with my team gave me valuable experience. I learned to cooperate with my teammates and acquired new skills. I now follow football differently, and I’m proud to join an official club after discovering my talent.”

Beshnaq highlighted that the initiative’s ultimate goal is to bring neighborhoods back to the heart of local football, revive the spirit of team play, and strengthen values of cooperation and friendship, making the neighborhood a real launching point for young talents. He stressed that every child who demonstrates true talent will receive full support to reach higher levels, regardless of financial limitations.

The initiative plans to expand soon to other governorates such as Zarqa and Irbid, aiming to reach as many talents as possible and ensure that every gifted child gets a genuine opportunity to develop skills and achieve their football dreams.

Beshnaq expressed pride in the initiative, noting that its success is reflected in fulfilling the dreams of children who previously had no opportunities, reiterating that every child with real talent will receive full support to reach higher levels, no matter their financial situation.