2017 VicHealth
Victorian Sport Development Initiative of the Year
"I Speak Football" - Football (Soccer)

“I Speak Football” was developed to address the issue of social exclusion and isolation for young people newly arrived in Australia from CALD backgrounds using the global language of football. Young Leaders were trained and empowered to run the programs. The objectives of the program were for participants to build relationships, learn new skills and improve their confidence. The Young Leaders and participants come from more than thirty cultural backgrounds and ten schools have been involved and the I Speak Football Cup, a match dedicated to showcasing the I Speak Football program. Match day experiences allowed the participants to play on the AAMI Park pitch at half time and join in fun activities pre-match with the fans. Free tickets were provided for participants and their families.