An unforgettable day full of impressive stories. That was the best way to describe the annual Meet & Greet that was on the programme again this week from the Special Wishes department. Wish foundations and supporters could nominate children for this, each with their own special story. For them and their families and friends, it was a day not soon to be forgotten.
Special stories
The 21 protagonists present each brought their own story. For instance, there was a little boy with two lower leg prostheses and who is missing his left hand. There was also a participant who can currently still see, but due to an illness will slowly lose his sight and eventually go blind.
The kick-off
The day started with a communal lunch, followed by a personal tour of the dressing rooms, the players' tunnel, the pitch and, of course, the museum. After plenty of photos were taken at the beautiful turf, everyone returned to the Maas building. There the highlight of the day was scheduled: the meeting with Feyenoord 1.
Smiles from ear to ear
The excitement was palpable. The children sat expectantly on the edge of their seats as one player after another entered. The entire selection and staff visited all the tables in groups. It could just happen that Igor Paixão came and sat next to you, or that Calvin Stengs wanted to know what you thought of the afternoon. Everyone took the time for a chat, an autograph, a photo and there was even a brief skipping with head coach Robin van Persie.
It seemed almost unending. No one was left out, and those present visibly enjoyed every moment. This was also true for the players and staff: these kinds of meetings impress them every year as well.
