Velsen, Netherlands – Former professional footballers Wout Brama and Maud Roetgering are leveraging their platform to promote inclusivity and acceptance within the sport, and beyond, through a series of children’s books. The pair, both products of FC Twente’s academy, are aiming to address issues of diversity, equality, and LGBTQ+ acceptance that they witnessed firsthand during their careers. Their initiative gained momentum last week with a book presentation to Velsen’s alderman Gideon Nijemanting, signaling a broader effort to inspire change at the grassroots level.
Brama, a defensive midfielder who played over 230 games for FC Twente across two spells, and Roetgering, a pioneering figure in Dutch women’s football, recognized a need to address societal issues within the traditionally male-dominated world of soccer. Their books aim to spark conversations about equality and acceptance among young people and their families. The project stems from a desire to give back to the community and create a more welcoming environment for all.
Nijemanting, whose portfolio includes sports, welfare, and youth, was a natural choice to receive the book. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity, defining it as ensuring everyone is treated with respect and dignity, regardless of background. He acknowledged that lived experience shapes understanding, stating, “If you’ve never experienced being disadvantaged, it’s difficult to empathize with those who have.” Brama echoed this sentiment, stating, “Football should be for everyone.”
Roetgering’s journey highlighted the challenges faced by female footballers. She recounted instances of discriminatory remarks while playing on boys’ teams, recalling parents shouting from the sidelines, “Kick that girl off the field!” She likewise spoke of witnessing racist abuse directed towards a teammate during a match, an experience that deeply impacted her and her teammate’s family. These experiences fueled her commitment to creating a more inclusive sporting environment.
The issue of LGBTQ+ acceptance in football is a central theme in their work. Brama reflected on past attitudes, admitting he once participated in chants containing homophobic language without fully understanding the harm they caused. “We used to sing with the whole team: ‘yes, yes, yes, they are the gays of VSS,’ and I sang along myself. I didn’t fully grasp what we were singing then, and now I realize how painful that must be for a boy who is attracted to boys.” He acknowledged the stark contrast between acceptance in women’s football and the often-hidden realities for gay male players.
The presentation in Velsen, held at the BUKO Stadion, was designed to inspire local football clubs to prioritize inclusivity. Representatives from amateur clubs in the municipality participated in a roundtable discussion focused on addressing exclusion, promoting acceptance, and creating safe and welcoming spaces for all. Telstar striker Kay Tejan shared his personal experiences with discrimination, adding weight to the conversation. Currently, two books featuring Wout and Maud are available, with a third installment expected to be released this fall.
The initiative by Brama and Roetgering comes at a time when discussions around diversity and inclusion are gaining prominence in football globally. FIFPRO, the global players’ union, recently nominated the pair for a Merit Award for their work promoting inclusivity through their children’s book, “Wout & Maud.” The award recognizes players who have made a significant impact off the field.
Wout Brama began his professional career with FC Twente in 2005, becoming a key figure in the team’s midfield. His career also included spells with PEC Zwolle, Utrecht, and a stint in Australia with the Central Coast Mariners before returning to Twente for a second period. Roetgering was a trailblazer in Dutch women’s football, playing for six of the original clubs in the Eredivisie Vrouwen, established in 2007.
The books aim to provide a platform for open and honest conversations about challenging topics, encouraging young readers and their families to reflect on their own biases and contribute to a more equitable society. The hope is that by addressing these issues at a young age, future generations will embrace inclusivity as a core value within the sport and beyond.
The next book in the series is expected to be released in the autumn of 2026. Fans can follow updates on the project and find out where to purchase the books through Wout Brama’s Instagram account and other social media channels. The initiative represents a powerful example of how athletes can use their influence to drive positive social change.
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