UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Leo Messi promotes childrens right to sport in Costa Rica

On 19 April 2011 Lionel 'Leo' Messi, the Argentine player and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, paid a field visit to Costa Rice in order to promote children's right to sport.

For five young boys and two girls in Costa Rica, meeting the footballing great, who plays for FC Barcelona, was an unforgettable moment at the end of March. "It's a dream come true," said Kevin, 8, who first wanted to learn to read in order to keep up with football news.

All the children - aged between 8 to 12 years old - come from socially vulnerable communities in Costa Rica and regularly play football at school or as part of special sports projects near to where they live.

Mr. Messi emphasized the importance of protecting children across the country. "Both boys and girls have the right to live without violence. Give them the opportunity," he said.

More information at http://www.unicef.org/index.php

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• UNICEF
• Messi
• Leo Messi
• Sport
• Costa Rica
• children's rights
• Latin America
• Goodwill Ambassador
• UNOSDP