Bayless High School is set to host a community event on Saturday, March 1, featuring a friendly soccer match, family-friendly activities, and a live traditional Bosnian dance performance and a film screening on Monday, March 3.
The festivities kick off on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. when the gates open at Bayless High School’s athletic field. Attendees can enjoy a friendly soccer match between Affton and Bayless High School students from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Younger guests can take part in a Kids Zone with face painting and coloring activities. The celebration continues indoors at the Bayless High School auditorium, where doors open at 12:30 p.m. Guests will be treated to a live traditional Bosnian dance performance from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the Bosnian community in St. Louis.
On Monday, March 3 an evening of film, culture, and inspiration awaits the community as Affton High School hosts a special screening of The Track, a documentary exploring the struggles and dreams of young Bosnian athletes.
The event kicks off at 6:00 p.m. when doors open at Affton High School in the Judy Rethwisch Auditorium. Attendees can enjoy free Bosnian food while supplies last, offering a taste of the rich cultural heritage of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
At 7:00 p.m., the documentary The Track will be screened, followed by an exclusive discussion featuring Bosnian Olympic athlete Mirza Nikolajev and film director Ryan Sidhoo.
The film follows three teenage boys training on a bullet-riddled, graffiti-covered luge track left over from the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo. Despite the lingering scars of the Bosnian War and a lack of state support, these young athletes, guided by their devoted coach, pursue their Olympic dreams in a nation still grappling with its past.
Director Ryan Sidhoo brings an intimate, coming-of-age perspective to the story, capturing the perseverance, friendship, and resilience of the next generation of Bosnian athletes. The Track serves as both an underdog sports story and a moving reflection on hope in the face of adversity.
This free event is open to the public, offering a rare opportunity to engage with an Olympic athlete and an acclaimed filmmaker while gaining insight into Bosnia’s athletic and cultural landscape.
Both events are open to the public and offer a unique opportunity for families and community members to come together, enjoy local talent, and celebrate diversity.