A Maitland teen’s dream to play soccer internationally promises to become a reality, what with the funds she desperately needs to achieve this.
Riley Sickle has been selected to join a team of local players on an educational cultural sports tour to Sweden made possible by Life Zone Soccer.
Life Zone is a Factreton-based non-profit organisation that has been transforming the lives of dozens of children from disadvantaged backgrounds through soccer and empowering them with life skills.
The tour, which forms part of Life Zone Soccer International’s (LSI) football team, takes place from Thursday 19 June to Wednesday 9 July.
Jeremy Wyngaard, founder and director of Lifezone Soccer International, said the tour provided opportunities for players to develop their personal, social and sporting skills.
“It also offers players the chance to learn another culture, meet new friends and broaden their horizons by believing that anything is possible. We want them to achieve their dreams.”
The 13-year-old needed to raise R28 000 to jet off to Sweden. Playing for Norway Parks Football Club’s senior women’s team, she describes soccer as a coping mechanism.
“The game helps relieve anxiety and stress. I am excited about going to Sweden. I did not expect this. I appeal to people to donate and help me reach my dream. This will be my first time travelling, so I am looking forward to it.”
She encourages girls to follow their dreams. “I hope whoever is trying to play soccer gets to achieve their dream and try their best without stopping.”
Riley has her eyes set on playing for Manchester United in future. “I am happy my family allows me to play my favourite sport. Soccer has been a thread running through my family for many years now, with many members playing.”
Proud mother Asheurita said her daughter officially started playing at age 9.
“Her brother plays soccer. We used to take her along to practice or matches. She would kick the ball. At the time there wasn’t a team for young girls, so they said she must wait until she is older.”
She said it had been a challenge to raise the necessary funds for the trip.
“We’ve had fundraising initiatives every weekend to make Riley’s dream come true, but we’re still short of the required fees. We call on all who are passionate about uplifting South Africans, and especially female footballers, to help Riley get to Sweden.
“I am seeking donations to make this dream trip a reality. Any amount, big or small, will make a difference.”
Sickle said her daughter attended Kenmere Primary School last year, which is where her skills were noticed.
“Life Zone usually takes u-14 and u-16 boys on the trip; this year they want to include girls as well. I have been fundraising, but not getting enough funds.
“I would like my daughter to realise her dream. A couple of years ago we didn’t see females playing football, but now we are seeing females being noticed.”
Sickle said she was proud of her daughter’s growth.
“Words cannot describe how proud I am of her. Looking back at where she started and where she is now is mind-blowing, the skills she has learnt as well.”
Wyngaard said this will be LSI’s ninth “DreamPossible!” tour to Sweden since 2009.
He pointed out it would be the first time the organisation would be taking a group of girls along since 2012.
“On arriving in Stockholm we will explore the place for about two days. The players also get to enjoy an adventure camp. They will play in two tournaments and have one sports camp during their two-and-a-half-week stay in Sweden.”
To donate to this potentially unforgettable trip and crucial participation in world tournaments and other features and highlights, visit https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/riley-sickle-dream-possible-sweden-trip
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