They call him PWG in the freestyle football circles.
But in the slums of Tondo where he taught young kids the art of freestyle football, Fil-Norwegian Philip Warren Gertsson is their “kuya.”
Philip, whose father is a Filipino from Sta. Ana in Manila married to a Norwegian mother based in Sweden, started his passion in freestyle football at the age of 14.
Though he never really grew up in the Philippines, the 25-year old Philip, always wanted to share his talent to Filipino children.
In one of his visits to the country in 2011, Philip gathered a bunch of kids in Tondo and introduced them to freestyle football. It did not take a while before the charismatic freestyler earned the affection of the Tondo kids.
“Every time I visit the country with my Dad, I go to Tondo and teach the kids some freestyle tricks simply because I can see their potential for this sport. I like the people in Tondo because they do have different views in life that only needs motivation and help from people like us,” Philip told this writer in an exclusive interview shortly after winning the 2016 Asian Freestyle Football Competition at the SM Lanang Premier last Saturday.
During the entire competitions, Philip wore a red shirt with “Tondo” printed in front.
When he started his project in 2011, he formed a group called Skilla in Manila.
To have their own football equipment, they sold some football stuff to raise money for the training. Until today, Skilla in Manila is on the lookout for sponsors who could help them in their financial needs as well as volunteer trainers who are passionate enough to help out the kids learn the sport starting from Tondo to the different barangays.
“Freestyle football is for everyone. You may practice it anywhere and in any way you want to. All you need to have is a ball,” Philip said.
The advocacy of Philip earned the support of Generation Amazing and the whole freestyle football community all over the world.
From Tondo, Philip envisions to bring the sport of freestyle football in villages around the country so that kids can be saved from the lure of drugs and vices.
Philip retained his Asian Freestyle Football title before what he considered as his kababayan.
The event, held at the SM Lanang Premier last December 9-10 2016, attracted hordes of fans who cheered on the Fil-Norwegian entry everytime he performs his routine.
“He is the crowd favorite and people seem to like him because he connects to them in a special way,” said Acey Puno-Reyes, PR manager of SM Lanang Premier.
Philip bested 31 freestyle footballers from 15 different countries who battled for the 16 slots of the quarterfinals.
What made the victory special for Philip is the fact that he has delivered his message once more to the Filipinos that everyone has an even chance to excel in what he does.
Indeed, PWG is a rare breed of champion, one whose heart is bigger than football.
