Soccer Camp with Thrive’s Refugee Youth
By Nara Shin
Thrive’s 2023 Soccer Camp at North Central High School
On the week of June 26, Thrive hosted a four-day soccer camp for immigrant and refugee youth at the North Central High School Field. It was the fourth annual soccer camp full of joy with team matches, snacks, and global food for immigrant and refugee families in Spokane, WA.
The soccer camp provided a wide range of opportunities for skill improvement and interpersonal/ intercultural communication. Thrive’s Youth Empowerment team emphasized enjoyment and camaraderie during the camp, as soccer is a universal sport worldwide.
Therefore, dedicated coaches designed recreational activities and team-building exercises and allocated leisure time for players to socialize and cultivate friendships during the camp. Participants were also invited to enhance their skills in dribbling, participate in shooting contests, and navigate through obstacle courses.
Participants represented 13 countries: Afghanistan, Columbia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Iraq, Kenya, the Republic of the Congo, Russia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, and Ukraine. One hundred and seventy-five immigrant/refugee youth participated during the four days within the age range of 7-21. Campers enjoyed each day practicing basic soccer skills and running for matches. “I am having the best time this week,” said Rimon from Eritrea.
On Tuesday, Officer/Coach Micah and Jen from the Spokane Police Foundation gave the participants a short lesson about safety and how to be better citizens in the community. For the camp, Thrive soccer jerseys, soccer shoes, socks/shin guards, USL jerseys, water bottles, and ice bags were donated and sponsored by local organizations like CHAS Health, PARK, and NorthWest Soccer Ministries. Moreover, volunteers from Life Center, Summit Church, Bethany Presbyterian, First Presbyterian, Valley Real Life, and Kalispel Tribe helped the camp in various ways.
Before the final match, a refugee youth poses with the soccer ball sponsored by PARK.
Thrive’s Youth Empowerment Director Jackson Lino and Assistant Shannon Price organized and led the camp. “The refugee and immigrant soccer camp holds a special place in our community because it celebrates diversity, fosters cultural understanding, and promotes empathy. I believe that by coming together and embracing our differences, we create a more inclusive and equitable society for everyone,” Lino said when asked why this soccer camp is meaningful for him and the community.
In the camp environment, where participants use different languages and grow up in various cultures, campers learn how to foster a multicultural community with love, care, and understanding. One of the campers, a Ukrainian kid, said, “My best new friend is from Syria.”
“When youth join the camp, they’ll experience a warm and welcoming environment where everyone is valued and supported. We hoped to help youth develop skills, boost their confidence, and forge meaningful connections with their fellow participants. I truly believe that by providing this supportive atmosphere, we can enhance the overall well-being and assist our community youth in integrating seamlessly into our vibrant community.”
A refugee youth kicks a soccer ball while backflipping.
The fourth annual soccer camp was wrapped up with a final soccer match on Thursday, June 29. One hundred seven players joined the camp’s finale, and community members joined the night to cheer. After the game, campers, community members, and volunteers enjoyed the Afghan and Indian food supplied by Feast World Kitchen.
