We are saddened to report that Anthony Alderson, a member of ISF’s extended family, passed away recently in New Zealand. Mr. Alderson played a pivotal role in the formation of the ISF Football Programme.

Anthony Alderson in 2007 sharing burgers with ISF football players

This sports lover and former FCC country director’s enthusiasm and support were pivotal to our early success. Alderson showed his steadfast commitment with regular attendance to our annual football competitions.  He was also known as a skilled and passionate community-builder. His introduction of ISF to May Tola, Secretary of Cambodian Football Federation, kicked off our partnership. This ongoing relationship has proved instrumental to the growth of the programme and the development of girls’ and disability football in the country.

Alderson’s legacy lives on through lives improved by football at ISF

ISF’s Football Programme started out with 15 players in Phnom Penh in 2007. Today, it includes 3500 girls and boys, including  intellectually disabiled, wheelchair-bound, hearing impaired, HIV and blind and visually impaired players. All take part in regular training, annual tournaments and events

ISF’s Football Programme

Using a bespoke social impact curriculum, these children and young people also engage in addressing social issues. Substance abuse, domestic violence, gambling and trafficking are some of the topics we cover. Also, traveling across Cambodia, we share these lessons at partner schools. Through these actions, we’ve been able to add an additional 2000 young people to those already benefiting from the programme. 

Alderson’s enduring legacy lives on through the lives that are changed by the programme he supported so much. We offer our sincerest condolences to his family.