Eight players from some of the most marginalised communities in Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh, recently traveled abroad for the first time in their lives, to represent their country in the 2018 SATUC Cup in Sofia, Bulgaria. The event brings together young, disadvantaged and orphaned players from 16 countries around the world.

The Cambodian team comprises players from right here at ISF Cambodia.The 15-16 year old students are part of our inclusive Football Programme, which supports over 3,800 Cambodian children through its leagues, tournaments, festivals and regular coaching. Our Football Programme provides children with not only football skills, but also the opportunity to develop life skills and confidence, learn about important social issues and become advocates for change.

Programme Manager, Yin Samedy, when speaking to the press explained that “these are some of the poorest children in Cambodia. They would never even have dreamt of travelling abroad to play football at an international tournament. Taking part in the SATUC Cup in Bulgaria is a once in a lifetime opportunity for these young players to prove to themselves and others what they are capable of achieving.”

The young Cambodian team have been training hard for almost a year in preparation for the event, taking part in intensive training camps run by ISF’s dedicated coaches.  The tournament kicked off yesterday and will until 16^th August 2018. Follow our Facebook page for more updates.