Azeem's Journey: From refugee to volunteer
Azeem Iftikah came to the Foundation of Light to help settle in the UK after arriving as a refugee, but he is now an integral part of the Wear Together sessions at The Venue in Stanley.
This is a massive step forward for our club and will allow us to provide the best possible Futsal experience for players of all ages and reach our aim of providing Futsal for everyone to enjoy for years to come."We would like to thank Foundation of Light for giving Futsal the opportunity to grow by giving us the opportunity to help them develop it as a priority sport. "We cannot wait to start working together and we are already preparing for next season both on and off the court." Established in 2012, Pumas Futsal Club was introduced to youth football teams in Washington as a way of playing sport during the winter months. A men's team was introduced on 2016 with the plan of creating a progression pathway for younger players. Futsal has been chosen as a Beacon of Light 'priority sport' alongside Netball, Badminton, Table Tennis and Basketball with the Foundation creating Centres of Excellence to give youngsters the opportunity to take part in team sports. Jamie Wright, Foundation of Light Assistant Director, added: "We are delighted to welcome Pumas Futsal Club to the Beacon of Light as a partner club. "The Beacon will truly be a world-class venue hosting multiple sports with players enjoying the best training and playing facilities including pitches, courts and changing areas as well as seating and refreshment areas for supporters. "We are committed to providing exciting opportunities to get involved in a number of sports and will be announcing further details in the very near future." Pumas Futsal is currently looking to recruit players to join its First Teams (Men and Women), Development Teams (Men and Women) and Academy (under 8s to under 16s). To find out how to join Pumas Futsal as a player or volunteer please email pumasfutsalclub@gmail.com.
Azeem Iftikah came to the Foundation of Light to help settle in the UK after arriving as a refugee, but he is now an integral part of the Wear Together sessions at The Venue in Stanley.
The former chairman of Sunderland AFC stopped by a volunteer meeting to say thank you to those who give their time to support the work of the club’s official charity.
A highlight among the Foundation’s delivery calendar, the summer programme of holiday courses features five weeks of varied activity to keep children active and engaged during the school holidays.