Why Children Walk Hand-In-Hand With Soccer Stars [VIDEO]

Imagine what it must feel like to walk out onto a beautiful soccer field, in a stadium packed with fans, holding hands with a World Cup soccer star! It must be the thrill of their young lives, for 1,408 children selected by McDonald's--who hail from 70 countries--experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

The McDonald's Player Escort Programme gives a child and a parent or guardian free flights, accommodations, sightseeing and meals, all courtesy of McDonald's, who has the exclusive right to select the 1,408 children. Each country is encouraged to take part in the program. McDonald's commitment to a balanced lifestyle is the key objective to their sponsorship.

There already have been moments where the young mascots have made a lasting impression. Australian midfielder Mark Bresciano said he was just doing what any parent or player would do when he bent down on the field to tie the shoe of his escort last week--a little boy who was on crutches.