On 18 / 19 September two CoolPlay Champions, Mzie and Justice attended a training workshop made possible by traiging4changeS and Laureus. The two day program included theory and practical sessions which were aimed at enhancing a coaches ability to use sport as a tool to fight Gender Based Violence and build awareness about the issue.

Pledge United is a global movement committed to using sport as a means to tackle gender based violence. Soccer is used as the language as they believe “If we want to change the behavior of young men, then football is a great way to connect with them. Football is a huge part of global culture, therefore also reflects the sexist attitudes that are rife within the world’s society. Our dream though is to try and use football to challenge those beliefs and make a safe place for all.”

Mzie reflected on the material covered during the sessions by saying that there were many similarities that he could draw between the course content and the CoolPlay Way. In particular Cards; 1 (Goal Setting), 2 (Personal Values), 5 (Communication) ,6 (Composure) ,9 (Gender Awareness).

These two enthusiastic Champions from our Khayelitsha area have been given more tools for their Champion toolbox and are motivated to head back into their community to make a positive difference.