Street Soccer Scotland will be welcoming Team Ukraine to the Street Soccer Nations Cup, with a women’s team now travelling to Dundee as a Street Soccer select.
The team, made up mostly from Ukrainians living in Scotland, will be one of the sixteen squads for this weekend’s tournament. The event was created to provide life-changing opportunities for all players involved and we hope that participation in the Nations Cup can give the women’s team a chance to connect, build confidence and create hope for them, in what is an extremely challenging time.
The war in Ukraine has been difficult to comprehend for people all over the globe and we continue to send our best wishes to anyone affected by the troubles, both in the country and beyond. Team Scotland coach, Sarah Rhind, highlighted the power of community and how quickly the group have gelled.
“We’ve been preparing with the girls for the last month and it the connection they’ve created with the rest of the group has been amazing. They’ve been extremely enthusiastic and I’m pleased they are getting the chance to represent their country as they transition to life in Scotland.
Special thanks goes to Street Soccer volunteers Colleen and Sophie, who have been brilliant in leading the group, so far. We all can’t wait for the tournament.”
The Nations Cup action begins this Friday, where all teams will be involved in small-sided games across the weekend. One player selected to represent Ukraine spoke of using football as an escape at this difficult time.
“For two hours I am so engrossed in the game that I forget that there is a war in my country and that my relatives are there. My soul reached out to all the girls, I thank everyone who teaches and encourages me on the pitch.”
This weekend’s event is free to attend and is suitable for all ages. With live entertainment and a chance to learn more about third sector organisations in the city, we hope that the Street Soccer Nations Cup bring joy and creates hope for the future of Dundee. Come and join us on City Square this weekend.
Street Soccer’s work across Scotland aims to support people facing a number of complex challenges, including people with refugee status. With various projects across the country, that continue to expand to support the refugee crisis, we hope that all of the players feel part of our #SameTeam.
