Saturday afternoon, May 5, 2018, at Hanoi Sports Training Centre, a charity football (soccer) tournament was organized by the German Embassy, Football Total, the Vietnam Football Federation and YWAM Mercy Vietnam. The goal was to raise VND 150 million (US$6637) to send 67 children from YWAM Mercy’s Community-based Children’s Homes to summer camp.
Four teams took part in the event including Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) players, V-stars club led by Viet Anh (a famous actor), the HAT football club led by the singer Tuan Hung, and a team of people from the German Embassy.
Several famous Vietnamese played in the matches, such as former well-known professional players, Pham Nhu Thuan and Vu Minh Hieu, and actors Anh Tuan and Anh Duc. Although the sun was very hot and rain also fell at one point, all teams played because of their love for the game and the knowledge that they were contributing to a better life for many children. The HAT Football club earned victory at the end of the day but we all celebrated because donations far exceeded the expected amount.
Many businesses and individuals took an interest in the tournament and came to the stadium. They both cheered for the teams and gave donations for the children. Many German enterprises were on hand including HAFELE, MESSER Hai Phong, B.Braun, and others.
This was the first time such a sports event has been organized for our children, and both they and the Home staff were surprised and excited. They cheered on the teams and met famous people. They were also confident with their answers when they were interviewed by various television channels.
We’re very happy to be here and were deeply moved when we saw that there were so many people who not only are concerned about us but also contributed to make a meaningful and rewarding summer vacation for us. We are so thankful.