Soccer, the beautiful game that transcends boundaries and unites people around the world, has become more than just a sport for the community gathered under the caring wings of Captain CarlosCuellar, a pastor at The Salvation Army’s Anchor of Hope CommunityChurch in Vancouver. His vision, ignited by a profound love for the game and a desire to foster unity, gave birth to an indoor soccer program in 2020.

Five years later, it’s still not about the goals scored or matches won, but about the profound impact it has on the lives it touches.

Soccer as Sanctuary

In the heart of Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, among the clients of Salvation Army shelters, a diverse tapestry of humanity converges on the soccer field. Captain Carlos, eyes gleaming with hope, describes it as a melting pot of nationalities, where language barriers dissolve in the universal language of soccer. Whether from Afghanistan, Africa, South America or Central America, they find common ground, stitching bonds of camaraderie through every pass and goal.

Yet, challenges to continue the program keep on the mind. The scarcity of space and equipment, the ebb and flow of participants hindered by life’s demands—these are the hurdles they face. But within this arena, hope shines brighter. Here, age or skill level doesn’t matter; everyone is welcomed with open arms. The logistics are handled with care by the members of the church, ensuring that every participant feels valued and supported.

Each kick of the ball echoes a different story, a unique journey of resilience and hope. For Mohammad Yasin Jamali, a refugee haunted by the echoes of war in his homeland, soccer becomes a sanctuary. His eyes reflect a longing for his family left behind; among the chaos, he finds solace in the game, chasing dreams of a brighter future in Canada together.

One Kick at a Time

Alongside Mohammad stands Arash Mehrgan, whose life took turbulent turns before finding comfort in the game he loves. Starting as an entrepreneur, a knee injury led to an addiction to painkillers and, eventually, homelessness. Battling addiction and homelessness, he found redemption through the compassionate embrace of The Salvation Army and the healing power of soccer. Through sweat and determination, he is rebuilding his life, one kick at a time, supported by a community that understands his struggles.

Their stories intertwine on the field, weaving a tapestry of resilience and redemption. With every pass, they rewrite their narratives, turning despair into triumph, pain into joy. On the court they find not only a relief from their troubles but also a glimpse of the possibilities that tomorrow holds.

For in the game of soccer, they find not only a means of escape but also a beacon of light guiding them toward a future filled with promise. And as they leave the gym, heads held high, they carry with them the belief that no matter the challenges they face, as long as they have hope to win this game of life, they can conquer anything that comes their way.

Giuliano Mendonca is the marketing and communications co-ordinator for The Salvation Army’s divisional headquarters in British Columbia. A journalist for more than a decade, he’s had newsroom experience in print and television, and has also worked as a communications consultant for private companies and the government. Giuliano is passionate about soccer, food and telling good stories.

Photos: Giuliano Mendonca

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