In Montreal, unhoused individuals showcase their soccer skills for a chance to join Team Canada at the Homeless World Cup in Norway this August
This practice is a big deal. It’s the first step for these guys to show what they’ve got for the Homeless World Cup in Oslo this August. Mugabe, 35, felt a mix of exhaustion and excitement after practice. He said it’s been ages since he felt this good.
The Canadian Street Soccer Association set this up to help people experiencing homelessness. They want to use soccer to help these folks reintegrate into society. After the pandemic hit, Mugabe lost his job and home. But thanks to the shelter, he’s now working again and saving up for his own place.
Bob Humphreys, who runs the program in Quebec, believes in the power of soccer to bring people together. He said it’s not just about the game; it’s about building community and helping these guys feel good about themselves.
Unfortunately, only two players showed up for practice due to the cold weather and some transportation issues. But Duré, 49, was eager to prove his skills. He’s been unhoused since 2021 and is ready to show what he can do.
The association aims to recruit eight players for a mixed team. They’re currently looking for players from various provinces, with plans to expand in the future. Each team will have four players on a smaller field, and they’re looking for those who are recently unhoused or temporarily housed.
Ed Kiwanuka-Quinlan, who once faced homelessness himself, knows how transformative soccer can be. He found hope and belonging through the sport, eventually representing Canada at the Homeless World Cup in 2012.
It’s all about feeling like you matter, and for these players, this opportunity could be life-changing.
