The Weyburn Soccer Association announced a new community partnership with the Southeast Newcomers Service – Weyburn Branch, a new program called “Just Play!”.
Weyburn Soccer’s mission is to cultivate an inclusive and welcoming community by developing great people through the love and spirit of the game. As well, one of their values is inclusiveness, and it is a priority for the club to make soccer accessible for all.
Partnering with the Newcomers Service just made sense for the organization, as they hold the same mission and values and provides Weyburn Soccer another stream to reach children and adults who want to play soccer. The WSA will be launching their indoor soccer league at the new Spark Centre over the winter months.
“The Just Play program is providing an opportunity for New Canadians moving to our community a chance to participate in sport without any barriers. They can register and not have to worry about fees or equipment, they simply can ‘Just Play’,” said Tyler Hillstead, technical director of the Weyburn Soccer Association
“We look at the story of Canadian soccer superstar Alphonso Davies who was a refugee that resettled to Canada. He began his soccer career in a free soccer program in Edmonton, like this program. He now plays professionally for Bayern Munich and is the one of the top players to play for the Canadian men’s national team. Weyburn Soccer was inspired by this and with the help of the Southeast Newcomer Services we can now help those new to Canada play soccer in Weyburn,” he explained.
He pointed out that sport is a social institution that brings people together and is a part of culture. Studies have shown that social activities are vital in helping immigrants intergrade into Canadian society. Soccer can help because we offer activities that engage people of all ages.
“Soccer is one of the largest growing sports in Canada and world-wide, therefore the language of our sport is understood by all. Membership in a soccer club can help new Canadians learn the local language, expand their social networks, and help with the mental health of the families. Weyburn Soccer provides a safe and fun environment, enabling new Canadians to interact in a friendly and informal environment,” said Hillstead.
If you are a new Canadian in Weyburn, please reach out to Laura Eddy at the Southeast Newcomers Service to get registered into Weyburn Soccer Just Play! program today. You can reach her by email – [email protected] or by phone at 306-842-9081.
