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Soccer Unites Refugee Children in Bonn
A successful soccer program in Bonn, Germany integrates refugee children, addressing language barriers and fostering social skills.
Serbian
Germany
Germany SportsRefugeesSoccerRefugees And MigrationCommunityIntegration
Hertha Bsc BonnGerman Football Association (Dfb)
Salim MehduiAntje NekiliJerg MihaelBernd Neuendorf
- What is the main focus of the soccer training program for refugee children?
- Salim Mehdui, a coach, conducts soccer training for refugee children in Bonn, Germany. He utilizes various communication methods, including nonverbal cues and cards, to overcome language barriers.
- Who initiated the "Football Connects" project, and what is its primary goal?
- The "Football Connects" project, initiated by Antje Nekili and Hertha BSC Bonn, aims to integrate refugee children through soccer. It focuses on teaching social skills and fostering interaction, helping children learn to cooperate and respect one another.
- What recognition did the project receive, and why was it considered significant?
- The project's success led to it receiving the Julius Hirsch Prize from the German Football Association (DFB). This award recognizes its contribution to social integration and its selfless approach, prioritizing the children's well-being over club recruitment.
- How did the coaches address the challenges of language barriers during the training sessions?
- Language barriers initially presented a major challenge. Salim Mehdui created a visual aid using cards with simple instructions and pictures for better communication during training sessions. Nonverbal communication and the shared activity of soccer itself also helped overcome the language barrier.
- What broader message about social integration and the role of sports clubs does the project convey?
- The project highlights the positive impact of sports in fostering social integration among refugee children. It showcases the importance of community involvement and the potential for sports clubs to play an active role in supporting vulnerable populations.