Interviews transcribed by Raphaella Robles

The BC Newcomer Camp experienced a fun-filled retreat hosted by the Vancouver Whitecaps. This two-day soccer camp had the children learning how to dribble, pass, kick, and shoot on an official playing field. The days were filled with relay minigames, plenty of pizza and snacks, and a lot of impressive skill building. The children even had a chance to practice their new skills in small matches against each other! We saw some great goals made by Team BCNC, only made possible with the generous coaching and encouragement from our friends in the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Photo of Vancouver Whitecaps team member David running with the kids on the field.

Here is what some volunteers from the Vancouver Whitecaps had to say about teaching our newcomer refugee children how to be future soccer stars:

How was it teaching the kids soccer?

“It was great. Love to see the community out here.” - David

What is something that you took away from these soccer workshops?

“The whole point is to get the kids involved. I think a lot of people overlook when it comes to professional teams. Everybody just thinks its just the professionals who come out whereas most of the professionals want to do more outside of a professional setting.” - Pavel

Our newcomer campers patiently waiting on how to be taught the next soccer drill.

Seeing how our children are all smiles today, what are your thoughts on this experience?

“The most important thing for the community experience is for the kids to remember today as ‘I enjoyed playing soccer today’. When you play with a big team like the Whitecaps you will have fond memories of enjoying soccer itself as a sport. And of course the Whitecaps. We would love if the kids grew up to be fans. I know the Whitecaps want to do more for them as well.“ - David

“When you play with a big team like the Whitecaps you will have fond memories of enjoying soccer itself as a sport.”

What did you think of hosting these workshops for BC Newcomer Camp?

“We love to work with BC Newcomer Camp!” - David

Our newcomer campers coming to get food for a well deserved lunch break.

What is a lesson you wish to get across to the children through these soccer workshops?

“Something we want to teach them as well is that they could play soccer with just a ball. We just needed to provide them with some space to learn. If they like it and want to practice, they are more than capable enough to learn.” - Pavel

“We just needed to provide them with some space to learn.”

What are your overall thoughts on the soccer camps?

“It was great to see so many kids out here. The smiles on their faces, the excitement and the energy and the community coming together to support them. Having BC Newcomer Camp over with the Whitecaps support great community initiative.” - Riz

Our smiling campers proud to finish a few fun-filled days of soccer camp!

What an unforgettable experience for the children at BC Newcomer Camp! They certainly learned more than they bargained for through these amazing mentors. A huge thank you to the Vancouver Whitecaps for welcoming us onto the soccer field and showing us how to play with confidence.

You can help us provide newcomer refugee children with safe spaces to learn and grow. Whether its by donating, following us on social media, or sharing this post with your friends and family, every action adds up to a bigger impact. Lastly, thank you for reading along and supporting us!

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