We’re spending today with a community futbol league in Nakivale settlement. It’s a league looking to provide support for an often overlooked group – girls who want to play futbol. There are girls teams throughout the settlement, to give girls a safe and competitive place to play – and the team we met in Base Camp was no different.
“I love soccer. I love playing with my friends” says player Claudine Kiwanya Gifebi, who has been playing soccer for the last ten years. “Playing together, being together – we find unity together.”
But because there aren’t many teams in the settlement for girls, their equipment is often woefully lacking – balls made of wrapped plastic, cracked cleats, girls playing barefoot and in their everyday clothes. So on Day 209, we brought new equipment to the women’s team that plays on the pitch in Base Camp near the ARC office.
The girls were enthusiastic when opening the new equipment, which included team jerseys, new balls, and cleats for their feet. “I am so happy! These items will help when we play,” says Claudine. Another player, Elsie Charlene, agrees. “This support will help our team. We won’t play barefoot anymore.”
The equipment is a small gesture, but the goodwill goes a long way for these players. “I like the game. My team is my life. First I played for my health. Now I play for my friends” Elsie says. Having a team to play for makes all the difference. And it can lead to big dreams.
“In sports there’s peace. You can develop your own talent. You feel good about yourself!” Claudine says. “You become Ronaldo, Messi. A hero.” A universal dream for any futbol player. And with proper equipment, they’re one step closer.
Special thanks to Danae Jaslow McClure and Corey McClure, Jane Stockman, SweatShop Health Club, Radiate Activewear, Clif Bar, Kathryn Walsh, Diona Jaslow, and The Houseman for making this idea happen!
