Posted: Monday, June 9, 2025. 7:23 pm CST.
Sagitun GIRLZ’s Sidney Ruíz Montenegro – Photo Credit: Sagitun GIRLZ
By Rubén Morales Iglesias: On Monday evening, the Sagitun GIRLZ, reigning champions of the Premier Women’s League of Belize, will hold a vigil at the CR Sports Synthetic Field to celebrate the life of Sidney Alejandra Ruíz Montenegro, 21, and her brother Juan David Ruíz Montenegro, 20. The siblings tragically lost their lives in a traffic accident on Sunday while returning home from a day of swimming at the Bladen River.
Monday nights at the field are typically reserved for Sagitun GIRLZ unwinding sessions, but Monday evening, teammates, friends, and family will gather to share memories, stories, and tributes in honor of Sidney and David. Pastor Franklin Arita, a well-known figure in Bella Vista, will deliver a sermon. Former teammates from Rumberas FC and Santa Cruz FC have also been invited, along with the Montenegro family.
Originally from Costa Rica, Sidney became a vital force in Belizean women’s football. She began her journey with Rumberas FC, which played in the National Amateur Women’s League (NAWL) until 2023 when the team dissolved. The players joined forces with Sagitun GIRLZ, forming a strong, united Midsouth team representing the region. The former Rumberas players—who once competed out of Cowpen Village—embraced their new squad, and together, they achieved a historic championship victory on May 31. This triumph secured their place in the Central American Interclubs Championship in July, a tournament Sidney had been eagerly preparing for.
Sagitun GIRLZ’s Sidney Ruíz Montenegro and her brother Juan David – Photo Credit: Sagitun GIRLZ
Sidney played as the team’s left winger.
Sagitun GIRLZ manager Adrián González said the news of her passing left them in shock.
“It’s a tremendously hard blow. That news left us stunned,” he said, expressing the deep sadness felt by the team.
“With all our love, we embrace all you did for us in the short time you were here! We love you eternally Sid!” Sagitun GIRLZ said in a social media post.
“This pain. This void. We still can’t come to terms with. All our plans, our upcoming trips, all of which will never be. You departed and left only wonderful memories. Sid girl, you touched us all. Rest in peace, Tica!”
Sidney’s brother David was her unwavering supporter, a constant presence at her matches, proudly cheering her on. Just one day before the accident, David graduated from Independence High School, marking a milestone that was filled with promise for his future.
The Football Federation of Belize (FFB) mourned the loss of Sidney and David Ruíz Montenegro, recognizing their profound impact on the football community and beyond.
Monday night’s vigil is a reflection of the strength, love, and unity of the Sagitun GIRLZ family who are profoundly affected by the loss of their teammate and her brother.
Sagitun GIRLZ – Sidney Ruíz #7 – Photo Credit: Sagitun GIRLZ
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