Sunday 16 June saw the launch of Mums Play in Oxfordshire – a brand-new, first-ever series of weekly recreational football sessions, targeted to female and child Ukrainian guests, refugees and asylum seekers.


To support the transition endured by those settling in our county, football has the incredible power to bring people together and helps to keep everyone healthy and active. 

Hosted at Witney ATP, the first session’s participants enjoyed the session which was kindly provided by coaches from Witney Vikings, all of whom gave up their time for free on a Sunday morning to deliver football for our participants.

Each hour-long session will take place on Sunday mornings at the same venue.

Youcef El Barhdadi, Inclusion Football Officer at Oxfordshire FA, said: “We are delighted to be able to create the very first weekly women’s refugee football session in Oxfordshire.

“Mums Play is all about breaking down the barrier of childcare, in allowing refugee women to access football for both them and their children. 

“We’d like to thank Active Oxfordshire, GLL, Oxford United in the Community and Witney Vikings for their support in allowing the project to happen. 

“If anyone is interested in volunteering at Mums Play in Witney, or at our planned future sessions in Banbury or Oxford, please get in touch via Youcef.ElBarhdadi@OxfordshireFA.com.”