Swansea street football tournament tackles social exclusion
Participants came from across Wales to play teams, including players from Swansea, in a unique Street Soccer tournament. Street Football Wales works with players who come from a variety of socially excluded back grounds including players experiencing homelessness, addiction recovery, people with learning difficulties and those experiencing mental health challenges. Through the power of sport, Street Football Wales say they bring people to together to play in a fun and inclusive way, where participation is valued more than performance.
South Wales West MS, Tom Giffard visited the event held on 11 April and congratulated all those that participated in the tournament, as well as Street Football Wales for all the work they do.
Tom Giffard said: “Playing football teaches people from across Wales invaluable skills, and that was clear to see when I visited Street Football Wales’ Inclusion Tournament last week. Crucial life skills like teamwork, as well as social and academic skills are taught brilliantly on the football pitch, which can hopefully be used elsewhere in people’s lives.
“Speaking to many participants, I was in awe at the difference that Street Football Wales was making in the lives of people from the city and across Wales, giving them a sense of belonging and purpose many felt they hadn’t had before.
“I hope that we can build on this success to ensure that more people know that no matter what you’ve been through, there’s always a place for you on the pitch!”
Jamie Grundy, Street Football Wales Director said: “All our players are so pleased to come to Swansea and have a fantastic day of street football together. We remove the barriers to participation for our players, such as putting on transport to bring them here, feed them lunch and we even make sure they have the right footwear to play the game.
“Through our supportive partners, such as the FAW and Pure Football, we are able to offer fantastic days like this tournament. We are grateful to showcase our work to Tom Giffard MS and explain the difference that we are making to people’s lives, one kick of a ball at a time.”
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