ST. MAARTEN – A last minute U-17 6v6 round of Friendly matches, hosted by Oualichi FC with the support of the St. Maarten Football Federation over the last weekend, brought some exciting football action to Emilio Wilson Park. With teams from St. Maarten and a visiting team from Saba showcasing their skills, the weekend had some intense “small-sided” field action.
The visiting Saba Warriors were one of the highlights of the event, as this was the first time they faced St. Maarten. They earned a victory in one of their games, with a strong performance against FC Soualiga A, and demonstrating extremely fast and precise play throughout. Hosts Oualichi FC A also stood out as they remained undefeated with two wins and a well-earned draw. Meanwhile, Belvedere B wrapped up the weekend with two notable victories, including a final win over FC Soualiga B, showing impressive composure and teamwork.
Soualiga divided their strength equally between Teams A and B and played with heart and determination, testing their opponents and showcasing their large base of talented players. They also, “played up” some younger under 15 “u15” players that were up for the challenge, as did many of the teams.
Both SCSA Eagles squads delivered exciting moments: the A team clinched a 5-2 victory against Belvedere FC A, while the B team earned a hard-fought win over Oualichi FC B and also participated in a friendly mixed game due to a forfeit. Oualichi FC B and Belvedere FC A also battled to a draw in a tightly contested match. Despite facing challenges with fielding a full team for the last two days, 758 SC played well on the first evening with their available roster.
The matches, coordinated by Oualichi FC, came together in under 10 days. The idea first came about after Saba coach Alejandro Longar connected with Oualichi’s coaching staff during the U-13 Regional Friendlies in Anguilla last month and explained that his u17 team was ready for some challenges. After getting the green light from several clubs in the federation, and President of Oualichi board Kim Vreeswijk commitment to organizing the event , they made arrangements. The Saba Warriors arrived to St. Maarten late by ferry boat on Friday evening to jump right into their first game, and left Sunday afternoon.
With the Raoul Sports Complex temporarily closed for track renovations, Emilio Wilson Park was crucial as the venue, enabling the matches to continue in “6 a side” format, and being great for the spectators.
“I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together as a team and board of Oualichi. Ultimately, our primary goal has always been to ensure that the children have the opportunity to enjoy playing football, and this weekend was a testament to that commitment. We also could not have done it without the help of the volunteer referees,” said Oualichi FC President Kim Vreeswijk
The president continued, “The event was filled with joy and camaraderie, and we are excited to continue organizing similar weekends in the future. Our hope is to expand these events and extend invitations to our neighbouring islands, fostering a stronger sense of community through the sport we all love.”
