With less than two months to go to the Homeless World Cup in South Korea, Team South Africa will announce its squad on the final day of trials, on Mandela Day, July 18.
Since its inception in 2003, the Homeless World Cup has aimed to transform the lives of homeless people throughout the world.
At least 54 countries will play 350 fast-paced games for seven trophies at Hanyang University from Saturday September 21 to Saturday September 28.
Founder of the non-profit organisation Oasis, Clifford Martinus, from Grassy Park, said the Homeless World Cup is an opportunity for people from informal settlements and school dropouts to travel and participate.
Oasis, established in 2000, empowers underprivileged youth through sports with a variety of programmes like street football and netball, and life skills workshops.
Martinus said former players and ministers will inspire the players on the final day of trials and team selection at Schaapkraal on July 18.
Team South Africa, however, lacks funding of R400 000 to attend the tournament.
“Your support can make a difference in our players’ lives and the community we serve. By sending our team to the Homeless World Cup, you’re not just sponsoring a trip, you’re investing in hope, opportunity, and the power of sports to change lives,” he said.
Last month the women’s team finished sixth in the inaugural Africa Women’s Cup, styled after the Homeless World Cup, in Arusha, Tanzania.
Coach of the women’s team, Mishalan Davids, said football taught her to become a better person and it can teach her players responsibility and leadership.
“The love and respect I received at Oasis as a child had an impact on my life. It still does. All of this helped me to become a better person and a better mother. It is a lot of love, a lot of respect,” she said.
Earlier in March, six of their former players were featured in the Netflix movie The Beautiful Game. The former members were a part of the Oasis Programs and played the South African team.
“All of them have been homeless, all have a story, and all of them profited through the chances of a once-in-a-lifetime journey,” Martinus said.
If you can help the team, contact Martinus on 027 82 945 4812 or visit their website: www.oasisplace.co.za
