Fitzroy Lions Soccer Club

Since 2013, Fitzroy Lions have been operating as an unregistered soccer club, organising soccer days and small tournaments around the Collingwood and Fitzroy Social Housing Flats. These events were aimed at bringing together culturally and linguistically diverse young people and providing a platform to connect with community, learn new skills and develop a passion for soccer. Our objective for 2018-2019 is to become a registered Football Club with Football Federation Victoria. Women are currently under-represented in club sports, this funding would allow The Lions to further its commitment to bridging the gender inclusion gap and promoting female representation in sport.

Coming from a culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) background, I've seen the barriers young CALD people face in participating in sport they're passionate about. Costly club fees, lack of transport, social isolation and racial and cultural discrimination all serve as barriers to young CALD people participating in club sports. Fitzroy Lions SC provides a platform for young people from all backgrounds to be active, develop a positive sense of identity, build confidence, connect with community, learn new skills and develop a passion for soccer. By doing this we will keep young people on the football pitch and off the streets.