Strengthening the Game from Sideline

Football is commonly known as the World Game, with culture being the stem for many individuals, families and communities.

On the 20th of July, Football NSW in conjuction with SydWest Multicultural Services organised a community coaching session for newly settled refugees.

Bronwyn O’Brien from SydWest Multicultural Services was the pioneer behind the days’ activities, with 25 young avid footballers from all kinds of cultural backgrounds participating in the session. SydWest Multicultural Services aims to empower individuals of all cultures by offering person centered direct services, skills sharing and evidence based representation.

The individuals were invited to take part in an ALDI MiniRoos Certificate, as well as participated in a Grassroots Course for Youth Refugees and Migrants who had recently moved to Australia. The key focuses for days sessions were leadership, teamwork and education, with hopes of the individuals staying with the program for the longevity of their football careers whether that be on or off the field.

Bronwyn credits the development of leadership as a key component to the program.

“Our young people, from some of the most war-torn areas of the world (eg Iraq, Afghanistan Ethiopia) embrace training opportunities that also help to build their teamwork skills and highlight their leadership potential. It’s great to envisage some of our young people going forward and becoming coaches in their local community.”

The course was run by Football NSW Coach Education Manager Oscar Gonzalez with the assistance of Game Development Officers Kevin Guardado Amaya and Charlotte Ercil.

For more information about SydWest, please click here