Sure! Here’s the translation to American English:
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In a corner of Ecatepec, a group of young soccer players has found in sports a way to escape the violence and insecurity surrounding them. Estrella Guzmán, just 12 years old, shares her experience on the field: “With soccer, I’m more myself. Here, I express everything I feel. I’m happier playing soccer and I forget all my problems.” Her voice represents many other girls who challenge gender stereotypes that have long limited women’s participation in sports.
The Cancha Violeta project has become a safe haven, promoting respect and equality not only in sports but also in everyday life. Estrella, who once experienced mistrust for being a girl, now feels empowered to pursue her dreams and inspire others to do the same. Aldo Huerta, 17, is also part of this group and emphasizes the importance of learning about inclusion and rights at every practice: “Women are really good at soccer, and we also learn from them.”
This impact reaches beyond simply playing soccer. During the celebration of World Soccer Day, Aldo called for leaving behind macho thoughts: “All women have the same right as men to practice any sport,” urging more young people to join this initiative.
The project, driven by the non-profit organization Más Sueños, operates based on principles of equity and holistic health. Dominic Ibáñez, a six-year-old boy, found in Cancha Violeta a way out of depression after losing his grandfather. His grandmother, Yolanda Martínez, highlights how sports have transformed his life, allowing him not only to play but also to focus on his studies.
In addition to sports practice, Cancha Violeta provides emotional support and violence prevention services. This model enables children and adolescents in vulnerable situations to access appropriate professional care, integrating a socio-emotional approach in each session to help them understand and manage their emotions in a safe environment.
The project’s founders, Perla Acosta and Nallely Arenas, have built a support community that extends beyond soccer. Perla recalls how, through sports, they were able to attract many women, organizing their first tournament six years ago with nearly 40 teams. This growth is a testament to the positive impact of Cancha Violeta on the community.
More than just a playing field, Cancha Violeta has transformed into a symbol of hope and change in an area marked by violence. The shared experiences on the field help normalize equality in all aspects of life, teaching new generations that the right to practice any sport should be universal, regardless of gender.
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Referrer: MiMub in Spanish
