"I believe that football can work as integration" - word from Gottne IF:s Moses Duckrell

Moses holding the ball before kick off!

On Wednesday this week Moses Duckrell and Danny Harmon took care of the football training session for asylumseekers and in Sweden newly-arrived people at Skyttis IP, which is an initiative and a cooperation between Gottne IF and Örnsköldsviks Kommun.

We enjoyed putting on a session for them, Moses explains. They were well mannered and a pleasure to coach. Coaching is something that we both have a bit of experience in, so it was quite fun doing a few drills and competitions with them. They were eager to learn and we could tell by their faces that they were having fun and that's what makes it all worthwhile.

Back when we were in England, we had to do an FA Level 2 coaching course on top of training everyday as part of our football scholarship programme with our old clubs. It was a great experience and even though we didn't get extended contracts after the programme, we still came away with some more knowledge of the game and of course a coaching qualification.

I believe that football is a very tactical game that should be played at a quick, sharp tempo but above all else, it must be enjoyable for everyone because at the end of the day, there's no point of playing it if you don't have fun!

Do you think that football can work as integration?

Yes, I believe that football can work as integration because it is one of few sports that isn't restricted by the language barrier. Danny and I can't speak much swedish, but we were able to show the boys exactly what we wanted them to do and they did it to the best of their ability. I believe the boys get an opportunity to socialise with new people whilst also keeping fit an active by playing football. So it is a very good initiative by the club and Örnsköldsvik Kommun and we would be happy to help whenever we are needed.

/Peter Fahlén