“Play to Belong”
This project's parent organization is The Maccabim Association – Soccer and Education in the Community
It operates in Israel
It uses Football (Soccer)
Entered the Sport For Social Inclusion Award
More about “Play to Belong”
Ethiopian immigrants face numerous challenges in Israeli society as they cope with moving to a new country and adapting to a new language and culture. Due to these absorption difficulties, the overall Ethiopian-Israeli population is unfortunately characterized by low socio-economic status, poor academic performance, and high rates of school dropouts. “Play to Belong” addresses these needs by providing Ethiopian immigrant children with a framework that combines soccer activities, academic reinforcement, and a social program that teaches various social skills.
We use soccer, Israel’s most popular sport, as an educational tool to connect the children to their new country and teach them important life skills (teamwork, responsibility, discipline, achieving goals they set, etc.). The project motivates the children, keeps them safe, and offers them a sense of belonging. What is especially unique about our program is our connection to the renowned Maccabi Tel Aviv soccer club, one of Israel’s most popular soccer teams. Participants of “Play to Belong” wear the same uniforms as Maccabi Tel Aviv professional players, thereby helping them feel part of an esteemed club and enhancing their sense of belonging and pride.