French soccer coach using Duolingo to help train his Aussie team

French soccer coach William Loison is using the Duolingo app to overcome language barriers while training the Shepparton Blasters Football Club in Victoria, Australia. Loison, 27, originally from Paris, communicates with his diverse team by focusing on essential English coaching words he learned through the language-learning application. He believes that 'football is a universal language' and limits his vocabulary during training sessions to ensure effective communication. Loison arrived in Australia five months ago on a Work and Holiday Visa and balances farm work with his coaching duties. He noted that the region's diverse migrant community contributes significant soccer talent. Rian Sobin, 13, captain of the Blasters' Under 15 team, praised Loison's coaching, stating that the team is passing the ball more and playing better since his arrival. Sobin hopes to play in the National Premier League one day and is optimistic about the Socceroos' chances in the World Cup. Sports researcher Tom Heenan from Monash University's Intercultural Lab highlighted that Australia's soccer scene is deeply intertwined with migration, reflecting the nation's multicultural identity. Loison, who has prior coaching experience in Paris, observes that the game differs in Australia, with many players joining training at a later age compared to France.

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Football is a universal language.