Soccer without Borders—Playing For Change

Mar 21, 2019 12:15 PM
Maddy Boston
Soccer without Borders—Playing For Change

Why soccer?

While there are many positive sport experiences, soccer is the most universally accessible; at its most basic level it offers playing opportunities that are low-cost, physically beneficial, inclusive and enjoyable. Soccer also enjoys worldwide popularity, making it the perfect platform from which to develop physically, socially, and individually.

Soccer Without Borders believes that the potential of soccer to make change is deeper than simply playing the game. Rather, our programs are built around the philosophy that soccer’s interpersonal environment has unique potential to meaningfully impact participants. Within that environment, youth are exposed to the benefits of soccer and team sports for their bodies, voices, and minds, and supported in the application of these benefits to their everyday lives and future goals.

When it comes to marginalized populations such as refugees, soccer offers an accessible, familiar space to build friendships and social capital, gain confidence, experience success, acclimate to new surroundings, and heal.

Soccer provides an avenue for positive engagement, a platform for personal growth, and a toolkit for a brighter future.

 

Soccer Without Borders first began programming in 2006 to address three critical issues facing young people in underserved communities throughout the world:

  1. A lack of safe spaces where young people feel cared for, have a voice and can experience the joy of sport.

  2. A lack of opportunity for youth to actively explore social issues and community challenges.

  3. A lack of social capital and access to potential opportunities for education, employment and personal growth.