Bosnia & Herzegovina's national football team pays a visit

The constant and dynamic buzz of activity at SOS Children's Village Sarajevo makes it hard to keep track of all its events. Still, there are some days which are especially memorable, when there was a special feeling of excitement shared by all.

FC Parma
The girls and boys of SOS Children's Village Sarajevo spent one such day on 30 May of this year, when the greatest stars of the national football team, rather than holding the usual press conferences prior to their Euro 2008 qualifier match against Turkey, visited the village on Mojmilo Hill.

For most children, this was the first chance to be close to some of their idols, whom they had only been able to see and admire on the television screens. For thirteen-year-old Alen, a great football aficionado, hanging out with football stars was an exceptional experience.

"I play a lot of football and my wish is to play for some big football club one day. My other wish was always to meet some of our national team players and today this wish came true! I hope my first wish also comes true..." said Alen, adding that being able to welcome them in his home, show them his moves and share his ambitions was an unforgettable feeling.

The players with coach Muzurovic and the children from SOS mother Zejna
Later that day, little Ismet proved to be an excellent stand-up comedian, unintentionally though. When the coach of the national team, Mr Fuad Muzurovic, asked him whether he supports the national team, the visibly confused Ismet whispered "But... but, I support Zeljo." [FK Zeljeznicar, often called Zeljo, is a football club from Sarajevo, editor's remark]

As it was a school day, the children had to run to class, so the visit came to an end. Nobody minded though, because the children couldn't wait to share their impressions with their classmates. "First lesson today is physical education!" exclaimed Alen motivated to exercise extra hard that day.

Wishing their heroes luck for the upcoming match and promising to cheer, the children rushed to school squeezing the autographed pictures and notebooks. Their smiling faces clearly showed that they would never forget this day.