When we set out to invest in the Youth in our neighbourhoods more intentionally through soccer, we could not have imagined where that would have taken us. What began as an idea to create a space for growth and connection has quickly transformed into something extraordinary.
We kicked off the year by taking our U-12 boys’ team, one of the five teams in Sunnydale, on their first-ever match to St. Thomas, ON. The excitement was palpable as the team boarded the bus, dressed in their jerseys, and brimming with nervous energy. For many of these boys, it wasn’t just their first match as a team; it was their first time traveling out of the city for a soccer game.
Under the dedicated guidance of Coach Keorapetse Peter and six incredible volunteer coaches from the neighbourhood (Adrian, Mohamed, Ahmed Abdikafi, Ali, and KB), the team has been training diligently for the past few months. These coaches, all from the local neighbourhood, have not only been teaching the boys the technical skills of soccer but also nurturing their sense of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
The match in St. Thomas was a true test of their progress. They faced a well-seasoned team, with talent and experience. While the final score may not have gone our way, the boys walked off the field with their heads high, their confidence boosted by their performance and the lessons they learned.
But the impact of this journey extended far beyond the pitch. The peer-to-peer coaching model we’ve adopted has been transformative. Each coach brings their own story and experiences, sharing not only soccer techniques but valuable life lessons during practice sessions and on the sidelines. The bonds they’re forming with go deeper than the game, creating a sense of trust and mentorship that ripples through the community.
As part of the trip, we were warmly welcomed by Steve Brown and the team at the St. Thomas Soccer Club. Their hospitality was second to none, offering us not just a place to play but an experience to remember. From the camaraderie on the field to the post-match pizza, easily the most delicious in St. Thomas, this trip was about more than soccer; it was about building connections and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
As we prepare for the winter futsal season, were excited about the journey ahead. The U-12 boys are ready to take on new challenges, and our coaches are equally eager to continue developing their skills and mentoring the next generation.
This is only the beginning. We’re grateful for the support we’ve received so far and look forward to many more collaborations with the St. Thomas Soccer Club and other partners who believe in the power of sport to change lives.