Brazilian Spirit, Italian Game
Beatriz Corrêa, Italy
Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your football life?
My name is Beatriz, I am 30 years old, married, and a mother of two daughters. I was born in Uberlândia in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. I have always loved football since I was little because my father used to play, and I enjoyed watching. I started playing in a local team called UTC in my hometown and played in school and state tournaments, but I have had many more opportunities here in Italy. I moved to Italy in 2018, with the intention of providing a better life for my daughters.
When I moved to Italy I found Queens, a Balon Mundial team. Now I play for a Brazilian team called Brasile Femminile (nine of the twelve players are Brazilian, the other three are Italian). I play once a week and participate in small tournaments in Turin. I used to play football before coming to Italy, but it was always at an amateur level.
What did you try to show with the photos? Was there any wider meaning with the photos?
I showed my friends that I met here in Italy. They are not only friends on the field but also in life. The friendships I made through football I will carry for life. I met our Brazilian team here in Italy, and it has allowed me to experience and learn so much, always reminding me of my country.
I wanted to showcase our joy and Brazilian spirit. I enjoy playing with a smile, as I am a cheerful, sunny, and fun-loving person. When I am with my friends, that is the place where I feel good.
Being with my teammates makes me feel at home - hearing my native language, laughing a lot, and dancing. Playing brings back that smell of the countryside and my roots, even if only for a moment. Playing with a smile and dancing is part of my Brazilian identity. Smiling is the best medicine.
What impact has Balon Mundial had on you?
Balon Mundial has opened many doors for me. It made me understand the importance of equality and that we can have fun and be happy here in Italy. I have learned a lot from everyone, and I am always grateful for the opportunities. I learned a lot about discipline, tactics, and fair play. I have always listened attentively to my coaches and referees on the field. I believe that I always have more to learn than to teach!
Here in Italy I feel like I live the most. Football made me see a more open and sociable country and that here we can have opportunities through sport. There are always new projects opening up for women and girls.
What does football mean to you? What ambitions do you have for the future?
Football means joy, love, and dedication to me. When I am on the field, I forget all my daily problems for a while. Oddly enough, I enjoy the butterflies in my stomach when a match is about to begin. It is a mix of fear, joy, and determination. When entering the field, I feel peace. My only ambition is for God to allow me to keep playing as long as I can.
