An annual soccer tournament in North York gathered refugees globally, organized to help newcomers build connections and alleviate stress associated with relocation. Organized by the Ontario Coalition of Service Providers for Refugee Claimants, the event provides a platform for community bonding and promotes healthy living. Participants report improved mental and physical health through soccer. Attendees, including newcomers from countries such as Ecuador and India, value the social interactions and shared experiences that the tournament fosters, emphasizing its importance in their integration process into Canadian society.
Francisco Vidal, executive director of Sojourn House, stated that the tournament 'uses soccer as a tool to build community and promote healthy lifestyles.' Participating in the matches also helps improve players' mental and physical health.
Dany Abuela, a newcomer from Ecuador, emphasized the importance of the event by saying, 'This event for us is very important because we can speak with the other people, know their experience.'
Tenzin Khentse, a youth leader at the FCJ Refugee Centre, mentioned that the event serves as a good distraction for those dealing with refugee and asylum procedures, highlighting that 'Football is something that everybody enjoys.'
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