Boots for All and Starlight
On Tuesday, Melbourne City FC players and staff kicked off its annual Christmas Volunteering Week with a special delivery to the ‘Boots for All’ warehouse and a visit to the Starlight Express Room at the Monash Children’s Hospital.
Osama Malik and Luke Brattan said it really put things in perspective for them, especially during Melbourne Derby week.
“Weeks like this mean so much to all of us at Melbourne City. It’s a rewarding experience to help with our amazing community programs and all the players have really enjoyed contributing to such a meaningful cause.” Malik said.
“These kids are going through a challenging time, but they are so positive and courageous. Each time we visit they have huge smiles on their faces despite the incredible challenges they are facing, and we are pleased to play our small part, particularly at Christmas time. Especially as a new father, it’s a moving experience and one that’s very inspiring.” Brattan said.
I Speak Football Program
Melbourne City FC’s I Speak Football program has concluded for 2017 following a successful year of bringing together youth from various communities and cultures, and assisting them to address isolation and loneliness in our diverse society.
The program was run at various locations throughout the year in Melbourne, including Bundoora, Braybrook, Fitzroy, Noble Park, Dandenong and Collingwood. During these programs, Melbourne City worked with more than 50 young people at each location and over 250 young people over all.
Melbourne City Social Inclusion Officer Albert Mambo said the program has brought enjoyment to the participants and helped them build their confidence.
“Lots of our participants said that they have made lots of friends and their confidence levels went up,” Mambo said.
“They enjoyed the football side of the program the most, and they would definitely come back and suggest it to others as it helped them a lot.
“Most of our participants who took part in the program and their parents are already talking about running the program again next year at some of the locations where they were bases as they really loved it and enjoyed it.
Saturday Sessions
Melbourne City FC Saturday Sessions are aimed at providing an avenue for talented young players who are looking to further develop their footballing education.
The Saturday Sessions continue to go from strength to strength with the latest program assisting over 40 players in broadening their football development. The academy sessions saw the participants put in the hard yards, and as a result reap the rewards.
Following the conclusion of a successful 8-week program in December, a new program will be commencing on Saturday, 13 January 2018.
- Date commencing: Saturday, 13 January 2018
- Location: Community pitch, City Football Academy
- Address: 2 Crissane Road, Bundoora VIC 3083
- Time: Saturday morning from 8:30am – 9:45am (8:15am arrival)
- Cost for new participants: $400.00 – includes eight academy sessions, 17/18 Home Jersey, City GA Junior Membership.
- Cost for existing participants: $250.00 – includes eight academy sessions (existing player are already Melbourne City FC members)
- Coaches: Petr Kratky and Jorge Gero
For further information please contact Jorge Gero: jorge.gero@melbournecityfc.com
Member Surprise
Melbourne City FC invited 10 lucky members to CFA Melbourne for a surprise introduction to their favourite players.
The fans were introduced to the stars of the A-League and W-League and had the once in a lifetime opportunity to participate in the team photos.
Rock Up and Play Program
Melbourne City FC partnered with YMCA Casey to deliver a family-friendly, accessible and affordable soccer program in Melbourne’s south-east.
‘Rock Up and Play’ was a huge success, with over 60 participants from the community joining the program and enjoying the fun. People of all genders, ages and abilities benefited from the inclusive environment that the program provided.
The program was a successful way for people to enjoy the game, have fun and meet new people – prizes were also handed out throughout the evenings, which added to the atmosphere.
