11/11/2025
Veterans Day | Honoring Service, Inspiring Hope
On this Veterans Day, we honor the men and women who serve our nation — and remember the enduring spirit of PFC Nicholas Madaras, whose vision continues to bring hope and joy to children around the world through the Kick for Nick Foundation.
🌟 19 Years of Impact
Nineteen years ago, the Kick for Nick Foundation took shape to fulfill Nick’s wish of sharing the sport of soccer — not only for the love of the game, but as a way to offer children a few precious moments of joy and normalcy amid the pain, uncertainty, and danger of war.
A dedicated volunteer soccer coach up until he left to serve, Nick envisioned children laughing, playing, and simply being kids — even if only for a few moments.
Today, when our military thinks about bridging cultures and fostering friendships, Nick’s soccer program often comes to mind — a living testament to the enduring power of compassion, courage, and the joy of play.
⚽ Timor-Leste (East Timor) — September 26, 2025
The U.S. Army Oceania Engagement Team – Timor-Leste (OET-TLS) visited Manuleu Primary School in eastern Dili Province to meet with teachers about their classroom supply project. During the visit, the team shared Nick’s story, introduced the Kick for Nick Foundation, and gifted the students soccer balls donated by Kick for Nick — a small gesture carrying a big message of friendship and connection.
Timor-Leste, one of the world’s youngest nations, has a resilient spirit and deep love for sport — a perfect reflection of the values Nick carried with him.
Looking ahead, we will be sending another shipment of 60 soccer balls and pumps to Timor-Leste, helping Civil Affairs teams continue their vital work of building trust and strengthening relationships in this part of the world.
(Photos courtesy of U.S. Army OET-TLS)
🌍 Kandale, Congo — September 19 to October 10, 2025
Earlier this fall, Kick for Nick supported the first-ever girls’ soccer tournament in Kandale — and the first in the entire Kwilu Province, in partnership with Reve Kandale.
🏆 32 teams of girls, ages 12 to 18, traveled from 32 villages across two provinces (Kwilu and Kwango) — some coming from as far as 50 km (35 miles) away — to take part in this historic event. Their dedication and determination were extraordinary.
We provided team jerseys, referee uniforms, sport bras, menstruation kits, soccer balls (including smaller sizes for preschoolers), and a safe portable changing tent. These resources made it possible for every player to participate with confidence and dignity — a major step forward for girls’ sports in the region.
The tournament followed a direct-elimination format, culminating in a joyful championship celebration:
🥇 Kiboba Village — 1st place and the grand trophy
🥈 Lycée Gina Gisanga Girls’ School (Kandale) — 2nd place
🥉 Malundu Village — 3rd place
🏅 Mukwatshi Village, who traveled 50 km to compete, received new jerseys and Bibles in recognition of their dedication.
Kick for Nick also presented four special trophies for outstanding performance:
• Best Player
• Top Goal Scorer
• Best Goalkeeper
• Best Coach
Every player received a new Bible — with 200 Bibles distributed in total — along with gold, silver, and bronze medals to honor their efforts and sportsmanship.
The event’s success inspired plans for a boys’ tournament in 2026, continuing the momentum of unity and empowerment that Nick’s mission set in motion.
(photos courtesy Colette Ramm, ReveKandale)
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Update: Wilton American Legion – Kick for Nick Net
Closer to home, the original Kick for Nick soccer net at the Wilton American Legion will receive a refresh this spring as we replace the old net.
Please note: only newer soccer balls may be donated at this location to ensure the quality and longevity of future shipments.
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From Iraq to Africa, from Timor-Leste to towns across America, Nick’s mission lives on — connecting cultures, inspiring youth, and reminding us all that service takes many forms.
Each soccer ball shared is more than a gift — it represents smiles, hope, friendship, and love, bypassing cultural differences, language barriers, and religion.
It is a simple object with a powerful message:
“No matter where you are in the world, joy and connection are universal.”
🕊️ Through each ball shared, Nick’s spirit lives on.
