Australia NewsStreet Socceroos Sydney Send Off |
AUSTRALIA’S quest for the Homeless World Cup is about to begin with the Street Socceroos wished on their way by Sydney FC’s stars today.
To see them meet Sydney FC...
Skipper Alex Marshall was joined at FC training by fellow Sydney-based teammates Pjay Streeton, Patrick Syah and Tim Butler.
Australia will be one of 56 countries taking part in the annual tournament which is being held in Melbourne next month.
More than 500 homeless and marginalised players will unite for an event which aims to raise awareness of homelessness and also transform lives.
Players have been chosen from hundreds of those participating in The Big Issue’s Street Soccer Program.
Skipper Marshall said: “It’s a fun and unique approach to what is quite a serious problem in Australia and that’s homelessness.
“Australia has 105,000 people homeless on any given night and that’s a terrible thing. Hopefully football can influence and can help change that situation.”
Although he now has a roof over his head, Alex knows what it’s like to spend time on the streets.
“It’s not something you’d wish on your worst enemy,” he said.
As for the football itself, the captain is feeling confident, especially with home advantage.
He said: “We’re in with a good shot. We’ve got the whole town (Melbourne) behind us. It should be fantastic.
“Players have gone from Homeless World Cup to playing professional football overeas. It should be fantastic, high tempo, high scoring games. I can’t wait.
“Italy should be a big threat. They’ve won it a couple of times and Poland are strong as well. As long as we beat the Kiwis and the Poms I think we’ll have a great tournament.
“We get to meet people from all over the world and I’m really looking forward to that.”
Street Socceroos coach George Halkias said: “The players are about to embark on an amazing personal journey. It’s an experience that they will treasure for the rest of their lives.”
Sydney FC coach John Kosmina wished the players well after training today along with the likes of Alex Brosque and Clint Bolton.
New skipper Steve Corica said: “We wish the Street Socceroos every success at the Homeless World Cup.”
The tournament takes place in Melbourne between December 1-7 at Federation Square and Birrarung Marr.
Teams comprise four players with two seven-minute halves. Scotland are the current reigning world champions at the annual event.
To see them meet Sydney FC...
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