By ALANA MITCHELSON
Young male refugees and asylum seekers are making cross-cultural friendships through their love for sport with the launch of a new Futsal Geelong league.
The indoor soccer competition was created with a spread of skill and cultures within each team.
The players represent a range of nationalities including Afghans, Pakistanis, Iraqis and Burmese.
Futsal Geelong manager Brad Roberts said the teams generally comprised new arrivals, some from detention centres.
“Some of them are not allowed to work, others are furthering their schooling.
“Futsal gives them something to look forward to each week. It’s a fun, structured outlet,” Mr Roberts said.
“These guys are fantastic young leaders in the community, considering all they’ve been through.”
Mr Roberts said the players would become great role models for other young new arrivals.
Rotary Club of Corio Bay helped cover referee and uniform costs and also supplemented participation fees, ensuring the competition was accessible to all.
“There are three matches each Monday and most of the boys are there from start to finish,” said club president Sandy Thompson.
“They sit on the sidelines to watch the other matches and cheer on their mates. The boys are all so keen and competitive.”
For the past two years the Leisuretime Centre at Bell Post Hill had no youth-specific futsal team, only a seniors’ league, so demand existed.
Fort Youth Centre manager Danielle Parker said her team worked closely with the City of Greater Geelong to get the Futsal league up and running.
“We’ve been working with the boys on managing any anger they may have in a positive way and have them build healthy relationships with police,” Ms Parker said.
“Some have even expressed their interest in exploring a career in the police force.
“We’re all about providing alternative education and employment pathways for young people who need support.”
The new Futsal league has become so popular that an additional 80 to 100 youths had shown interest in participating after just three rounds into the season, Mr Roberts said.
Organisers hoped to eventually create a volleyball team to offer an outlet for female refugees as well as a junior league.
