Oxford Phoenix Compete in First League Competition
Oxford Phoenix, a grassroots team within the county that provides opportunities for refugees to play organised, competitive football, have entered into their first league competition this summer.
Entering this year’s Charity Football League, Oxford Phoenix commenced their campaign in the competition on Thursday 13 October, celebrating a 5-2 victory.
Youcef El Barhdadi, Oxfordshire FA’s Inclusion Football Officer and coach at Oxford Phoenix, said: “It is a pleasure to be a part of the Charity Football League, which is the culmination of a lot of hard work. The team went 2-1 down, but the players showed maturity in continuing to trust each other. After working out what needed to be done at half-time, we ended up coming out winners. The team really enjoyed it, and is looking forward to the rest of the league season.”
The Charity Football League aims to raise money for its partner charity, Jacari, by bringing communities together through inclusive, friendly, but competitive football. Jacari is a student charity, operating in Bristol and Oxford, which provides free home tutoring to children aged 6-16, who speak English as an additional language.
The Charity Football League, in support of Oxford Phoenix, kindly provided the team with entry to this year’s competition free-of-charge.
Curtis Campbell, one of the league’s organisers, said: “Since 2012, the Charity Football League has been offering players in Oxford the opportunity to develop their competitive football skills, enhance their fitness, and enjoy the beautiful game.
“The funds donated to Jacari from the Charity Football League proceeds have helped many students in Oxfordshire through the educational support the charity provides. The league is also so important to players, because of the fun and competitive atmosphere it provides. We would love to expand in Oxford to provide mixed genders/open, and inclusive football and women’s leagues, in order to support the demand for safe and inclusive spaces to play football.
“We are delighted to welcome Oxford Phoenix to the league this year, as a team that share so many of the Charity Football League’s values. We wish them luck in the competition.”
For more information on Oxford Phoenix, or inclusive opportunities available within football in Oxfordshire, please email Youcef.ElBarhdadi@OxfordshireFA.com