A CULTURAL EXCHANGE THROUGH SPORT

Alongside Community Praxis, we’ve been working closely with the UASC (Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children) boys and the YMCA to provide a sense of community, structure, and support for young people who have had no choice but to flee their homes. Through sport, we’re helping them integrate into life in the UK, building their confidence, and giving them opportunities to create lasting connections.

Recently, we partnered with Needham Market Academy, who hosted us at their impressive home ground, for a special cultural exchange. This day brought together two groups of young people with different backgrounds, experiences, and journeys, united by their love of football.

The day began with a mix of excitement and apprehension from both groups. On the surface, they seemed to come from completely different worlds. But once the conversations started, it quickly became clear just how much they had in common.

The UASC boys shared their personal stories, their footballing heroes, and the dreams they carried with them. In turn, the Needham Market Academy boys and girls opened up about their own journeys and gave us a glimpse of life at the academy. It was incredibly powerful to watch both groups listen attentively to each other’s experiences, and realize how much could be learned through sharing.

The next part of the day involved football training, where the Academy coaching staff put everyone through their paces with an academy-style session. There were drills, small-sided games, and of course, a penalty shootout to add some friendly competition! After the action-packed session, everyone gathered for a shared lunch and some downtime. In true community spirit, a few rounds of darts provided a fun, relaxed way to wind down.

But beyond the drills and competition, the real highlight of the day was the sense of unity that developed. From the first conversations to the final kick of the ball, barriers faded, and new friendships began to form. The UASC boys and Needham Market Academy players found common ground not just through football, but through shared respect, understanding, and a willingness to learn from each other.

Sport, once again, proved its power—not just to develop skills, but to bring people together, create shared experiences, and build a sense of belonging. The day was a reminder that despite the differences in our backgrounds, we all share the same love for the game, and that is a powerful force for connection.

A huge thank you to Needham Market Academy for hosting us at their impressive home ground and to everyone who made this day possible! Let’s continue using sport to inspire, connect, and uplift the next generation.