“Jealous of the boys, that they get to experience this”

8 June 2024

“Ohhh ahhh” echoes in a still empty sports hall that has been transformed into a restaurant/reception area. “It looks fantastic and professional.” While volunteers are making the final preparations before the opening begins, the mothers of Riva Hanepen and Cherosa Latupeirissa are wide-eyed with amazement. Their sons have been playing for FC Twente/Heracles since this season, having previously played for clubs in the western part of the country. The two mothers, living in North and South Holland, have just arrived and are admiring the beautifully decorated hall. They are staying with a host family in Enschede this weekend and are really looking forward to it. And you can see it, they are already beaming with pride. “Jealous of the boys, that they get to experience this. The clubs they get to play against are not the least.” Their sons are excited about the tournament and have a healthy level of nervousness. “A great big tournament to look forward to.”

The Marveld Tournament, a wonderful experience to take with you, for the boys but also for their mothers. “You stand on the sidelines, but you can see from the boys whether they find it very exciting and whether they feel good.” The mothers are also a bit nervous themselves. “For the boys,” as they say. When asked about their expectations, the ladies are initially hesitant to answer. But after some urging, they do provide an answer: “It would be nice if they didn’t finish last in their group and manage to get a few points. But above all, to have fun because if you’re not having fun…”