WorldCoaches holds Oranje watchparty on World Refugee Day

On 20 June, WorldCoaches organised a global watchparty to coincide with World Refugee Day as the Dutch national team faced Sweden. Children, coaches and local supporters gathered in orange jerseys across multiple continents to experience the match together.

Watchparties were set up in Jordan, Indonesia, Egypt, Lebanon and the Netherlands, as well as in refugee centres, embassies and football fields spanning three continents. Each location hosted its own community of participants while remaining linked by the live broadcast.

All coaches involved had completed the KNVB WorldCoaches programme, which teaches them to guide children in social values such as respect, responsibility and teamwork. The training equips them to foster a supportive environment both on and off the pitch.

In Kansas City, a three‑day course run with Kansas City Current attracted 45 children from vulnerable neighbourhoods. The participants trained, played and shared the excitement of the Dutch match.

During the final day, Oranje internationals Marten Reijnders, Denzel De Roon, Tijjani Timber and Geertruida Stevens visited the watchparties, signing autographs and speaking with the young fans. Their presence created memorable moments for the children.

Since last year, WorldCoaches has been active in the Netherlands with support from the UEFA Foundation for Children, delivering coach education in asylum centres such as Ter Apel and Zeist. These sessions help coaches develop their skills and integrate into local club life.

On 20 June the network of watchparties will collectively watch the same match, each from its own context, reinforcing the shared Oranje spirit worldwide.