Instilling Sportsmanship Early Through Coloring Competitions During Matches at the Tribun Supersoccer Arena in Kudus

KUDUS – The roar of the crowd at the MilkLife Soccer Challenge (MLSC) All Stars 2026 at the Supersoccer Arena (SSA) in Kudus on Wednesday (June 24, 2026) was not the only activity drawing attention. Elsewhere in the arena, hundreds of kindergarten students sat in rows, focused on their work. Their small hands were busy with crayons, colored pencils, and markers, filling in soccer-themed drawings titled “I Dare to Score a Goal”, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the event.

The coloring activity provided a space for children to express their imagination while experiencing the atmosphere of a girls' soccer tournament. While athletes competed on the pitch, the young participants learned about courage, creativity, and sportsmanship through their chosen colors.

By early afternoon, the designated area was filled with families. Parents accompanied their children, helping them with their supplies, offering encouragement, and capturing memories as the children focused on their creative tasks.

Among the enthusiastic participants was Fati Abdillah (4), a student at Hadipolo Kindergarten. She worked diligently on her drawing of a soccer player. Though young, she expressed her goal with clear confidence.

“I am taking part in the coloring competition. The picture is about soccer; it’s fun. It’s not hard. I want to win,” she said innocently while continuing her task.

Not far from where Abdillah sat, Rully Nur Sofia (5) was also enjoying the competition. She chose pink and green to adorn her drawing because they are her favorite colors. For Sofia, the experience of competing in a soccer stadium provided a fun introduction to the sport, helping fuel her interest in becoming a professional female soccer athlete.

“I chose pink and green because I like those colors. This is my first time here, and I came with my mom. It’s exciting, and I hope I win. There are so many friends here,” she said with a wide smile.

For the young participants, the competition was more than just a contest. The opportunity to socialize with peers, explore a new environment, and feel the excitement of a sports tournament created a memorable experience at an early age.

Parents and guardians shared similar sentiments. The presence of a coloring competition during the girls' soccer tournament provided an educational and entertaining space for children and families visiting the Supersoccer Arena in Kudus.

Aprilinda Setiarima, a guardian from RA Wasilatut Taqwa Tenggeles, brought six students to participate in the event. Known as Linda, she noted that the coloring competition serves as an effective platform to foster courage, creativity, and a sense of responsibility in children from an early age.

“I think it is very entertaining and helps train children to be more courageous, intelligent, and responsible. While accompanying the children as they draw, we can also watch the exciting girls' soccer matches,” she said.

According to Linda, combining creative activities with sports matches offers broader benefits for families. Children gain new experiences, while parents can enjoy the matches without having to leave their children unattended during productive activities.

She also praised the Supersoccer Arena facilities, describing them as comfortable and family-friendly. The diverse range of supporting activities ensures visitors enjoy their time at the stadium atmosphere without becoming bored.

“The impression is extraordinary. The stadium is beautiful, clean, and well-organized. Kudus does not have many sports facilities like this. So, the children are happy and the parents are comfortable,” she added.

The MilkLife coloring competition is part of the MilkLife Soccer Challenge All Stars 2026 series held at the Supersoccer Arena Kudus. In addition to the kindergarten-level coloring contest on June 24, the organizers also held a drawing competition for primary school students in grades 1 through 4 on June 25, 2026.

These supporting activities have enhanced the visitor experience during the tournament. The Supersoccer Arena Kudus serves not only as a venue for girls' soccer matches but also as a hub of interaction where children, parents, and the community can enjoy creative engagements in a sports-focused environment. Through these activities, the spirit of sportsmanship is introduced to children at an early age, while the tournament provides broader benefits for families and the local community. (JMY/mainkekudus)