Building Community Through Sports: The Impact of the Kick 'N' Mix Program in Broadmeadows
Soccer and other sports are being utilized in Victoria to help newly arrived teenagers build friendships and foster a sense of community while addressing issues like violence and anti-social behavior in schools. In Melbourne's north, the Kick 'N' Mix sports program at Banksia Gardens Community Services in Broadmeadows offers structured sports activities such as soccer, volleyball, and basketball for teens to connect with peers from similar backgrounds and cultures. The program, led by soccer coach Ramadan Aldana, attracts between 20 and 40 participants weekly, many of whom are originally from countries like Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Thailand. Participants enjoy the opportunity to play sports with friends from their community, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
The Kick 'N' Mix program is one of six community organizations receiving funding from Education Minister Ben Carroll as part of the state government's Social Cohesion Through Education initiative. With a total funding commitment of $708,000, the program aims to reach 11,000 students throughout the year, focusing on promoting positive social behavior, mentoring, leadership development, and cultural activities to prevent violence and aggression in schools. The program aligns with the government's efforts to address youth crime by implementing stricter penalties for young offenders and introducing violence reduction units in schools.
In addition to Banksia Gardens, other organizations like Holstep Health/Himilo, Uniting Vic.Tas, Shepparton District Ethnic Council, and The Huddle have also received funding to support various activities tailored to meet the specific needs of participating schools. These activities, ranging from peer support groups to parental engagement sessions, are designed in collaboration with schools to ensure they address the unique challenges and requirements of each school community.
Ramadan Aldana highlighted the positive impact of the sports program at Banksia Gardens, noting that it provides a safe and inclusive space for young men and women to come together and engage in sports activities. The program not only promotes physical activity but also encourages social interaction and friendship-building among participants. Education Minister Ben Carroll emphasized the importance of creating a safe and connected school environment where students feel empowered to address issues like hatred and discrimination.
Broadmeadows MP Kathleen Matthews-Ward echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the significance of supporting programs like Banksia Gardens in fostering genuine connections among local youth and strengthening community bonds. By investing in initiatives that promote social cohesion and positive youth engagement, the government aims to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students in Victoria.