Soccer is so much more than a sport. It’s a powerful tool that brings people together, teaches valuable life lessons, and helps improve lives.
The Frank Montagnese Foundation (FMF) is committed to supporting initiatives that help young people grow and develop. Our partnership with One Ball, a unique organisation using soccer to benefit disadvantaged youth and others, is a natural fit.
Together, we promote inclusion, support mental health, and build strong, resilient communities. We’re not alone in our efforts. Similar programs around the world have shown soccer’s transformative power.
One Ball – Soccer as a Catalyst for Change
One Ball founder Kamal Ibrahim is living proof that soccer can change lives.
As a young boy who migrated to Australia from Ethiopia with his family, Kamal couldn’t speak English. Soccer became his escape and helped him fit in.
The game gave Kamal confidence and taught him valuable team lessons. It also provided unexpected opportunities, including a stint with the Australian Young Socceroos.
Kamal created One Ball to give back. His goal is simple: to provide disadvantaged kids, especially those from multicultural backgrounds, with the same life-changing opportunities he was fortunate to receive.
Learning from Global Success Stories
One Ball is not alone in its approach. Similar programs around the world are putting soccer to good use.
The U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Soccer for Success program has benefited over 700,000 children, improving their health, social lives, and academic performance.
Soccer Without Borders helps refugee and immigrant youth integrate and develop leadership skills through the game.
In Europe, Buntkicktgut’s intercultural street soccer leagues have reduced youth violence and promoted social cohesion.
These are just a few examples of soccer’s ability to have a positive impact and a reason why Frank Montagnese Foundation believes in the value of this project.
Transformative Programs by FMF and One Ball
Global success stories inspire our partnership with One Ball, but it is carefully designed to meet the unique needs of our community.
Here are some essential programs we support:
- Positive Soccer Program
While the kids have fun playing soccer, the Positive Program builds mental resilience and promotes overall health. The life skills they develop on the field are just as critical as the exercise they get. - Cultural Events
One Ball’s events, such as the annual Ramadan dinner, bring people from diverse backgrounds together, promoting cross-cultural understanding and unity. - School-Based Programs
One Ball runs programs at schools like Al-Taqwa College, helping students build confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills.
The Yirga Chefe Vision
One Ball’s growth is focused on giving back to founder Kamal Ibrahim’s hometown.
A synthetic soccer pitch is planned for Yirga Chefe, providing a safe space for kids to play, learn, and thrive.
This is not just about building a soccer field; it’s about instilling hope and opportunity in a community.
It’s a testament to the success of One Ball’s model in a remote area and a blueprint for bringing progress to other parts of the world.
Five Ways Soccer Changes Lives
Soccer’s impact extends far beyond the field. Here are five ways programs like One Ball make a lasting difference:
- Improving Health
Soccer provides a great form of exercise for kids, and it helps them stay healthy. It also benefits mental health by reducing stress and boosting self-esteem. - Fostering Inclusion
Soccer is a great equaliser, bringing people from all cultures and walks of life together. - Teaching Life Skills
Soccer helps kids develop valuable life skills like discipline, leadership, and teamwork. - Creating Safe Spaces
Soccer fields are often the safest and most welcoming places for kids—where they feel supported and valued. - Inspiring Aspirations
Soccer success breeds off-field confidence, leading to more significant achievements in school and life.
Why This Partnership Matters
We’re proud to support One Ball at FMF because we’ve seen its impact on young people.
When we combine our resources and shared passions, we can accomplish so much more. Together, we’re not only changing lives—we’re building stronger communities.
Our partnership perfectly exemplifies how sport can unite people, inspire change, and help build a better future.
Help Us Support One Ball
You can help us sustain this vital work.
Support the Frank Montagnese Foundation and One Ball by donating, spreading the word, or getting involved.
Let’s allow the next generation to aim higher, play harder, and build a brighter future.
