In Their Own Words
Business
For a country that adores its sporting culture, The Big Issue’s Community Street Soccer Program is a mechanism for change that everyday people can understand and that provides real change to the lives of marginalised people.
Ray Horsburgh, Chairman, Toll Holdings and Essendon Football Club (AFL)
Not only is it a proven catalyst for positive change in the lives of homeless and marginalised people, but through our involvement we have also had the opportunity to inspire our employees and foster a culture of understanding and tolerance.
Simon McKeon, Executive Chairman, Melbourne Office, Macquarie Group
The engagement, empowerment and hope Community Street Soccer offers homeless and marginalised people is inspiring and we at BHP Billiton are delighted to be able to contribute to the establishment of the program.
Ian Wood, Vice President Sustainable Development, BHP Billiton
The expansion of this community program will give more marginalised people an opportunity to rebuild their self-esteem and self-confidence to get their lives back on track.
Paul Faulkner, Managing Director, Nike Australia
Participants
It makes me feel I’m not alone, I’m part of something, and that there’s other people out there in the same situation, and it helps me get through a lot of things.
Community Street Soccer Program participant
You meet new people, hang out with mates, and you’re not smoking, you’re not drinking, you’re not popping pills. It’s like hanging out with a really good bunch of people and they’re all getting their life back together.
Community Street Soccer Program participant
Sometimes people don’t understand when I try to explain how important soccer is to me, but it has dead set helped me change my life.
Community Street Soccer Program participant
Just get behind this, because this is probably the best program that the streets have had available. It just inspired me to feel normal again.
Community Street Soccer Program participant
I have learned a lot about team skills and communication. It’s the biggest opportunity I’ve ever been involved in.
Women’s Community Street Soccer Program participant
Yeah, without doing this (the Street Soccer Program) I know I wouldn’t be where I am now.
Community Street Soccer Program participant
Ambassadors
One thing that always inspires me is the tremendous courage of these men and women to make positive changes in their lives, which can be extremely difficult to do for any human being.
Ambassador Craig Foster, Former Socceroo and SBS Chief Football Analyst
The Community Street Soccer Program uses the perfect vehicle – sport – to re-engage people who are marginalized and have given up on traditional support services.
Ambassador Liz Ellis, Retired Australian Netballer
Sporting
Sport is a wonderful thing. It brings us together as equals, instills self-confidence and can provide a positive focus in our lives. The Big Issue’s Community Street Soccer Program harnesses this power and delivers results – healthier bodies and minds that are re-connected with our community. It’s a win-win for everyone.
Larry Sengstock, former Olympic basketballer and CEO, Basketball Australia
The amazing thing about sport is that it has the power to transcend socio-economic boundaries. Once you step out on the field everyone has the chance to be equal and that’s a rare opportunity in today’s society for some people. Perth Glory commends The Big Issue for developing this innovative program, and as it gains momentum across the country, we look forward to seeing it transform lives.
Daniel Israel, Community Football Manager, Perth Glory Football Club
The provision of social and physical activities assists people to become socially connected, develop self-esteem and have fun.
Anne-Marie Phippard, Sport Development Manager, Netball Australia