Talented youngsters U-NITE at AAMI Park

U-NITE friendly game celebrates multiculturalism in football.

A team of Horn of Africa immigrants and an Under 15 Victorian Champions League All Star team got a taste of professional football on Australia Day as they took to AAMI Park for the annual U-NITE game as a curtain-raiser to the sold-out Melbourne Victory v Sydney FC Hyundai A-League match.

Now in its third year this Football Federation Victoria and Melbourne Victory initiative celebrates the cultural diversity of football in Victoria, reinforcing the fact that football truly is The World Game.

Prior to the match both teams took part in a training session run by Melbourne Victory Youth Coach Darren Davies as well as having a tour of the AAMI Park facilities and a meet and greet with the Melbourne Victory senior team.

The VCL boys also took part in an overnight camp that included, a respect and responsibility workshop, recovery sessions and how to prepare for elite competition through a session with Rodrigo Vargas (Former Socceroo & Melbourne Victory player).

For most of the players it was their first time on AAMI Park, though judging by the talent on display, it won’t be the last time some of these boys take to the field at a major stadium.

Football Federation Victoria is dedicated to breaking down barriers which may prevent newly arrived communities participating in football, and in 2012 we helped 322 players at 42 clubs get involved in the game through our United Through Football program.

FFV General Manager of Game Development Salv Carmusciano said that the 2013 event was another fitting showcase of the way a passion for football can bring people together.

“United Through Football is all about fostering personal development through greater access to the World Game,” he said.

“FFV is delighted to once again work with Melbourne Victory on the U-NITE initiative which uses the biggest stage in the A-League to celebrate the game’s diversity and multiculturalism.

“I am sure the young boys that represented the VCL All-Stars and UNITE FC thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience and will continue to enjoy their football for years to come.”

UNITE FC defeated VCL All Stars 3-1 in the friendly match.