UTRECHT – With the arrival of Ukrainian refugees, many people are contributing. Sports associations are also making themselves heard. At wrestling club De Halter in Utrecht, Ukrainians can train for free. “You lose sight of most people over time, but a few stick around,” says Erwin Goris of the wrestling association.
He speaks from experience, because about five years ago many Syrians also trained with the club. And that’s why they know how it works. “We are in contact with the municipality, they have to make the first contact.” Goris explains that the volunteers are willing to run a little faster to arrange this. If someone does not have transport, they may be able to ride with a member.
Two Ukrainian boys are now training with them, one of 13 years old and one of 26 years old. “The question is whether they can stay, because maybe they will move or be relocated.” But that’s no reason not to put effort into it. “Sport brings people together. They are welcome. Every child who finds his way is a plus for us.”
‘The language of wrestling is international’
And how does that work, practically? There are quite a few nationalities walking around the club. “Some trainers speak Russian. And a boy from Iraq also helps, for example, those languages are close to each other.” They solve the rest with Google Translate. “One way or another there will be a click. The language of wrestling is international.”
Anyone can sign up, whether you have experience or not. People who have already struggled in their homeland settle down extra quickly. “Wrestling is no different there than here.” There are several associations that offer sports to Ukrainians. Kampong also does it,” emphasizes Goris.
A few stick around, Goris likes that. “Mustafa comes from Iran and came to train six years ago. Now he lives in Leidsche Rijn and has everything done. He came to us and said: you took care of me so well, what can I do in return? Now he is a youth trainer with us.” Goris is proud of it. “Then you think: it has been good for something. You lose sight of most people, but for a few you can make a difference.”