Fire-fighter Ryan Vague takes on David during a round-robinsoccertournament betweendisadvantaged youth andDandenongfire-fighters and Victoria Police officers. 69792
By Nicole Williams
DISADVANTAGED youth went down four matches to one in a round-robin soccer tournament against Dandenong fire-fighters and Victoria Police officers last week.
But Dandenong CFA senior station officer Glenn Proebstl said the losses didn’t ruin their enjoyment.
“They seemed to enjoy themselves and didn’t mind getting beaten,” he said.
“It went very well. We played five, won four and drew one.”
The 25 disadvantaged teenagers from ‘The Big Issue’ street soccer program heard a speech about future careers before breaking into two teams to take on two teams of fire-fighters and police officers last Wednesday.
The tournament was organised by Dandenong fire-fighter Lachlan Ross who saw it as an opportunity to create a bond between those in ‘uniform’ and the community.
“These teenagers are capable of being fire-fighters or police officers – or whatever they choose to do in life,” Mr Ross said.
“They just need to be reminded of how valuable they are.”
All players were also treated to a sausage sizzle. The program aims to improve the teenagers’ confidence, self-esteem, health and fitness and re-connection with the community.
