Line up for host nation announced
Posted on 09/10/2008
Eight homeless and marginalised people from across the country have been selected to represent Australia at Melbourne 2008 the Homeless World Cup.
The Australian team, known as the Street Socceroos, will enjoy the support of a home crowd when the Homeless World Cup, hosted by The Big Issue Australia, heads Down Under for the first time.
Announcing the team line-up today, Street Socceroos Coach George Halkias praised the passion and commitment of players: “The Street Socceroos are a great example of what homeless and marginalised people can achieve when given the opportunity and support,” Mr Halkias said.
“Our Australian players have seized the opportunity to make positive changes in their lives, and will be able to stand proud on the world stage.”
“Players have been selected not just on their soccer skills alone, but on their dedication and commitment to a regular soccer training program, which encourages team work, discipline, and the commitment to making positive changes in their lives.“
Players have been selected from hundreds of homeless and marginalised people across the country involved in a weekly street soccer program coordinated by The Big Issue. The program uses sport as a catalyst to transform lives, by reconnecting homeless and marginalised people with the community and working to rebuild players’ confidence and self-esteem.
Captain of the Australian team, Sydney-based Alex Marshall, said he was honoured to be chosen to represent his country at an international sporting event, and was looking forward to competing on home turf.
“It’s an honour and a privilege to represent Australia”, Mr Marshall said.
“I still can’t believe it’s real. I’m really looking forward to meeting other players from around the world, and showing everyone what we can do. “
The Australian Street Socceroos are:
- Alex Marshall (Captain, NSW)
- Stephen Maloney (Vice-captain, VIC);
- Lorenso Neghad (VIC);
- Hamid Arabi (SA);
- Kevin Knight (QLD);
- Coen Slaughter (NSW);
- Toni Whelan (SA);
- Eddy Halid (VIC).
Australia is expected to face some stiff competition against some of the more established football nations, but Coach George Halkias said that no matter where teams finished in the rankings, the players would experience huge benefits.
“The Homeless World Cup is a reward for players who have made the commitment to turn their lives around. No matter where we finish in the rankings, each player will go home a winner, “Mr Halkias said.
Photo by Michael Brown / Photoworx
