Refugees find belonging and community on the hockey field

In Toowoomba, a beacon of hope shines through the unifying power of sport, particularly hockey, for the Yazidi refugee community. The "Belong in Hockey" program, spearheaded by Jessie McCartney and supported by the Toowoomba Hockey Club, offers more than just a game; it provides a vital pathway to belonging, confidence, and language acquisition for individuals rebuilding their lives after fleeing persecution.

“

They're a part of my life now, and they're like family to me.

Amir Abdalla's story is a testament to the program's impact. Having escaped the horrors of ISIS in Iraq at a young age, enduring years in refugee camps, Amir found solace and a new family with the Rangeville Hockey Club. His journey from a traumatized survivor to a goalkeeper and volunteer coach highlights the transformative potential of community-based initiatives. His personal success, including securing full-time employment and purchasing a home, underscores the broader benefits of such programs in fostering self-sufficiency and integration.

“

We had a vision that sport can be the thing that helps these people get a sense of belonging in the community and improve their confidence and their language.

This initiative, recognized by Hockey Australia and the Queensland government, demonstrates a grassroots approach to refugee settlement that prioritizes human connection and shared experience. While international coverage often focuses on the challenges and statistics of refugee crises, stories like Amir's, nurtured within local clubs, reveal the resilience and triumph of the human spirit. The "Belong in Hockey" program is not just about playing a sport; it's about rebuilding lives, fostering community bonds, and proving that diversity truly makes us stronger.

“

We're very proud of Amir. He's become an advocate for hockey in the Yazidi community.