In a press conference yesterday afternoon, Minister of Sports Gerlien Croes congratulated IBiSA, formerly IDEFRE, on its 50th anniversary. Minister Croes shared the history and development of this unique sports organization in Aruba, explaining that it began in the 1970s, inspired by former politicians who recognized the importance of sports in the community, schools, and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Former Minister Hendrik Croes initiated the effort to create a department for sports management in Aruba. At the time, this was a significant initiative for the island.
Reflecting on the past 50 years, Minister Croes highlighted that sports activities, especially inter-island and school competitions, have been central to the development of the community. In 1976, the government officially established a dedicated sports department, IDEFRE. In 2012, it became IBiSA, continuing its mission to promote physical activity and health for people of all ages, supporting organizations and schools in their movement and wellness activities.
Minister Croes thanked all the directors, staff, partners, and the general community for their active participation in promoting sports and health in Aruba over the past five decades.
“I congratulate the board, staff, partners, the government, and the community at large for the 50 years of this unique sports department in Aruba. I hope we can continue together for many more years. Thanks to you, after years of development in sports and movement, we have never wavered from the goal and inspiration that Aruba must remain active in the community, and this is what we want to continue to guarantee,” expressed Minister Gerlien Croes.
