by Hannah Saunders
The sound of whistles blowing and balls being kicked rang through the synthetic turf soccer fields at Shoreline Park on September 5, where the Fedayeen Football League hosted its first ever Makluba Cup. The event honored Palestinian athletes martyred during the ongoing genocide, and helped fundraise for the Palestine Sports Network.
Matches of 5 v. 5 took place from 10 a.m. to about 6:30 p.m., and several booths with tents were set up around the pitch to offer resources, including SUPER UW and Seattle Against War. Palestinian flags filled the space and surrounded the bleachers, and handmade kites that represent freedom and had messages of hope were laid out.
As the sun radiated warmth beneath, young children kicked soccer balls around their parents, some of whom were resting on the ground and chattering among themselves. Others passing through the park even stopped and joined in the activities along their way.
One member of Nidal could be heard chanting on and off throughout the late afternoon: “N-I-D-A-L, what’s that spell?” which was followed by “Nidal!” The Malak Tareq Ziad Musleh team, which included members of Nidal, played the Hanan Wael Al Hawajiri team— both named after martyrs— in the final match.
Malak Tareq Ziad Musleh players put their hands in and exclaimed “1, 2, 3, Free Palestine!” before running onto the playing field.
The halftime show for the final match featured over a handful of young children, who proudly walked out with their handmade kites hoisted in the air. “Free, free Palestine!” said one who was about three-years-old while clumsily running to catch up with the others.
A speaker provided remarks about what children in Palestine are facing during the Israeli and U.S.-led genocide, like how Israel has recently declared that kites are now considered an act of war. She also highlighted how settler violence is on the rise in the West Bank, as is land theft.
“Today we all came together,” the speaker said. “But, I don’t want it to end here. Today, stay in touch and keep showing up for Palestinian events.”
She said that people are stronger together and encouraged attendees to build relationships while remembering the martyrs.
“Let your heart beat for liberation. Let it beat for Palestine,” she added.
Not long after, players took back to the pitch for the second half. The Malak Tareq Ziad Musleh team was leading the way, but then came the penalty shoot-out, and the Hanan Wael Al Hawajiri team came out on top.
The players and crowd began to mesh, and one small group stood in a circle with their arms around each other, celebrating with the classic “Olé, Olé, Olé,” chant.
A couple of men brought out a makluba dish, which is a popular Palestinian dish that features meat, rice and fried vegetables— and a dramatic flip. Attendees gathered at a tent as several people passed out plates of makluba, with the hearty aroma wafting through the air.
The awards ceremony took place around 7 p.m., and highlighted the player with the best vibes, among others. Winners received prizes, like posters, and the celebration ended with free Palestine chants accompanied with music from the speakers.
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