Maurice Yeung & Alan Wong

Successful Launch of Summer Soccer Class

The "Summer Soccer Class," a collaborative project among organizations within the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong, was held with great success. Sixteen children from families of asylum seekers and refugees participated in four sessions, where they learned essential soccer skills such as ball dribbling, controlling, passing, shooting, and positioning. The program also included simulated matches, providing a fun and engaging experience for all the children. This partnership not only offered young asylum seekers and refugees the chance to enjoy football but also introduced an innovative approach to social inclusion and integration.

Collaborative Efforts for Inclusion

To prevent these vulnerable children from becoming isolated, Catholic organizations across the diocese came together to organize the "Summer Soccer Class." The Pastoral Care for Displaced People (PCDP) and the Society of St Vincent de Paul Central Council of Hong Kong (SSVP HK) promoted and invited families to participate. De La Salle Secondary School (DLSSS) provided the grass pitch for training, while Tuen Mun Catholic Secondary School (TMCSS) contributed a physical education teacher and ten student assistants. This collaboration created a positive environment for intercultural dialogue, offering dignity, respect, and hope to the children.

Memorable Experiences and Recognition

Despite challenging weather, including heavy rain and intense heat on Saturday afternoons, the participants made wonderful memories. The final session, held on 15 August 2026, featured nine distinguished guests, including the PCDP convener and members, SSVP HK leaders, and school principals. They presented each child with a souvenir: a specially designed jersey personalized with their chosen name and number. This event not only honored the children but also marked a new model for inclusion, encouraging others to welcome children from asylum-seeking and refugee families.

Empowering Children Through Sports

The structured sports training class does more than occupy time; it aims to empower children from Asylum Seeker and Refugee families. By keeping them active and engaged with their local peers, the program helps build self- confidence, offers gentle guidance, and prevents isolation. Without such opportunities, some children may fall prey to negative influences during unstructured summer periods, risking poor choices that could harm their futures. Ultimately, children from asylum-seeking and refugee families are part of our community and neighbors.