The Street Socceroos were farewelled today at a function in Sydney as they embark on their Paris 2011 Homeless World Cup campaign. The team were presented with their jersey by Attorney-General Robert McClelland and FFA CEO Ben Buckley.
The Street Socceroos were farewelled today at a function in Sydney as they embark on their Paris 2011 Homeless World Cup campaign. The team were presented with their jersey by Attorney-General Robert McClelland and FFA CEO Ben Buckley.
Represented by eight players from The Big Issue-s Community Street Soccer Program, the team will join 64 teams from 53 countries at the Paris 2011 Homeless World Cup from August 21-28.
Now in its ninth year, the annual tournament uses football to raise awareness of homelessness and help participants overcome challenges in their lives.
The Australian team was selected from hundreds of homeless and marginalised people involved in The Big Issue-s Community Street Soccer Program. Through weekly training sessions, the grassroots program helps reconnect participants with the community and works to rebuild their confidence and self-esteem.
Announcing the team in Sydney, Attorney-General Robert McClelland, Representing Minister for Social Housing and Homelessness and Minister for Sport Mark Arbib, said the federally-funded program helped create change for some of Australia-s most vulnerable people.
“Street Soccer empowers players by promoting participation, inclusiveness and team spirit. The Homeless World Cup players have all made a commitment to the program week-in, week-out and now have the chance to stand on a world stage - a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Football Federation Australia CEO Ben Buckley said: “We support football across all levels of the community from elite to grassroots and The Big Issue-s program is a great example of how this sport can change lives.”
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Street Socceroos Squad for the Paris 2011 Homeless World Cup
Chris PAFFARD (c) - Melbourne (27) Mustafa HOUSAIN - Melbourne (19) Cindy CHATTERS - Hobart (32) Roy JOHN - Sydney (48) Nathan WHALEN - Wollongong (22) Yussuf MOHAMED - Canberra (20) Reece LOPEZ - Brisbane (23) Peter - Melbourne (18)
Clickhere for the images from the farewell function