In partnership with the Lions Soccer Club, CCIS’s Newcomer Children and Youth Connections (NCYC) program through our Sport for Settlement initiative fields formidable U-17 and U-19 boys’ soccer teams in the Calgary Minor Soccer Association’s indoor 7v7 season. With impressive records, both teams are gearing up for the city playoffs.
The teams are made up of youth from refugee backgrounds, most of whom have arrived in Canada within the last two years. The players come from diverse countries such as Afghanistan, Syria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Sudan.
Both teams compete in Division 3, and they’ve been doing an amazing job this season. The U-19 boys have an impressive record of 10 wins, 3 ties, and 0 losses, putting them in first place with just one game left. The U-17 boys have also been formidable, with a record of 8 wins, 2 ties, and 3 losses, placing them in second place with one game remaining.
The teams are coached by Ruben Vasquez Jr from the Lions Club, along with Ben Abraha and Farookh Mohammad Aslam from Team NCYC.
Both teams are gearing up for the city playoffs on March 8th. Should they win, they will advance to the city finals on March 9th. It is an exciting time for these young athletes, who have shown incredible resilience, dedication and teamwork throughout the season.
This soccer season has been more than just about the games. It’s been a chance for these boys to bond, learn, and grow together. Coming from different backgrounds and facing various challenges, they’ve found common ground on the soccer field. The support from their coaches and the community has been invaluable, helping them to build confidence and develop their skills.
As the playoffs approach, the anticipation is high. Regardless of the outcome, these boys have already achieved so much.
Their journey is a testament to the power of sports in bringing people together and creating opportunities for growth and success. Go NCYC!
