Cambodia’s Homeless World Cup Team: A Celebration of Resilience and Hope

Seoul is poised to become the latest city to host a unique trifecta of sporting events: the Summer Olympics, a FIFA World Cup, and now, the Homeless World Cup. From September 21 to 28, Hanyang University will be the stage for 500 players from 64 teams representing 49 nations participating in the first-ever Homeless World Cup held in Asia.

The Homeless World Cup, an initiative advocating for an end to homelessness through the power of sport, is set to bring together individuals who have faced homelessness or social exclusion. This annual tournament, which began in 1999 and added a women's event in 2009, is a testament to the transformative power of sport. Cambodia, participating since 2008, has been fielding a team for the Homeless World Cup since 2010, showcasing the dedication to this global movement.

Cambodian Team’s Journey to Seoul

The Cambodian team, comprised of eight young athletes, is set to compete in the 19th Homeless World Cup in Seoul. Their journey to Seoul is a story of resilience and hope, made possible by the Happy Football Cambodia Association (HFCA), with support from the Cambodian Children’s Fund (CCF). These athletes, who are homeless or have experienced homelessness, are eligible to compete under the rules of the competition. Their participation underscores the competition organizer’s commitment to empowering disadvantaged youth through the transformative power of football. The Cambodian team is a shining example of the Homeless World Cup’s mission to bring life-changing opportunities to impoverished youth.

A Team United by a Common Goal

The squad of eight players, hailing from different provinces of Cambodia, reflects the diversity of the nation. Five of them, including Samey Sao (28), Pheak Porn (25), Nivath Veng (23) from Siem Reap, Phanna Phorn (23) from Prey Veng, and Po Oem (24) from Kampot, were initially selected for the 2020 tournament in Finland but were unable to participate due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Their resilience and dedication to the sport have finally allowed them to realize their dreams.

The remaining three players, Thonet Soam (17) from Svay Rieng, Sokarn Sen (19) from Kandal, and Makara Phun (18) from Prey Veng, join this diverse team. This mix of experienced and aspiring players, united by a common goal of representing Cambodia and showcasing their skills, will make for a truly inspiring team. Their presence at the Homeless World Cup is a testament to the impact of organizations like HFCA and CCF, which work tirelessly to provide opportunities for marginalized youth to pursue their passions and dreams.

A Shared Vision of Empowerment

Paraic Grogan, the founder of HFCA, highlighted the significance of the Homeless World Cup for these players, stating, “Finally, the five players who missed out on Finland in 2020 will have the chance to showcase their talents at the Homeless World Cup in Korea. HFCA is thrilled to give our kids the opportunity to compete with teams from around the world, gaining new experiences and further developing their skills.” This sentiment echoes the shared vision of HFCA and CCF, who are committed to supporting the athletes’ journey to Seoul and empowering them to achieve their full potential.

The Cambodian team will face stiff competition from countries with strong footballing traditions like Brazil, Argentina, Germany, France, Italy, England, Scotland, and Nigeria. The experience, however, will offer valuable lessons in sportsmanship, teamwork, and resilience, a powerful statement on the global impact of the Homeless World Cup.

More Than Just a Game

The Homeless World Cup is not merely a sporting competition; it is a powerful social movement that transcends national boundaries and cultures. Scott Neeson, the founder of CCF, eloquently stated, “CCF has been supporting HFCA for years, and the goal of this partnership is to provide our young players with the opportunity to travel and play against teams from diverse regions around the world. It’s an incredible experience that has a profound impact on the participants.” This impact extends beyond the field, empowering the players to foster a stronger sense of community and believe in their ability to improve their own lives.

Embracing a Future Filled with Hope

The Cambodian team’s participation in the Homeless World Cup in Seoul represents a testament to the power of football and its ability to empower marginalized youth. Their journey to Seoul is a story of hope, resilience, and a shared commitment to making a difference. As the players step onto the field, they will carry with them the dreams of a nation and the unwavering support of organizations like HFCA and CCF, demonstrating that football can indeed be a force for positive change and a catalyst for a brighter future.

A Global Movement: The Homeless World Cup’s Impact

The Homeless World Cup, with its focus on inclusivity and empowerment, has been making a significant impact on the lives of individuals who have faced homelessness or social exclusion. The event has been the subject of numerous documentaries, including “Kicking It” (2008) and “The Beautiful Game” (2024), showcasing its impact on the global stage. It is also the subject of the Korean sports comedy-drama “Dream” (2023), directed by Lee Byeong-heon and starring Park Seo-joon and Lee Ji-eun, also known as IU, highlighting the event’s growing popularity and cultural influence.

Empowering Lives, One Goal at a Time

The Homeless World Cup Foundation, a social organization registered as a charity in Scotland, cites a 2005 global survey by the United Nations, which estimated that there are approximately 100 million unhoused people worldwide and as many as 1.6 billion people lacking adequate housing. The organization’s mission, “A world without Homelessness,” speaks to the heart of this global movement. The Homeless World Cup is not just about football; it’s about social change, providing hope and opportunity for individuals who are often forgotten. The organization’s website, homelessworldcup.org, offers a platform for information and resources, further extending its impact beyond the field.

The Homeless World Cup stands as a powerful symbol of hope and resilience, reminding us that everyone deserves the opportunity to achieve their dreams and find their place in society. As the tournament in Seoul unfolds, we are reminded that sport can truly be a force for good, empowering lives and building a better world, one goal at a time.