Melbourne City FC, in partnership with MatchWorks, officially launched its latest community program, City Start – an initiative for young unemployed men from culturally diverse backgrounds.
Based on the successful City Sisters program run in 2015, City Start is designed to inspire, educate and create opportunities for young unemployed men from various social backgrounds through the combination of football and job skills training.
The program launch, which was held at the City Football Academy in Melbourne on Monday, was attended by several government dignitaries, including Melbourne City FC ambassador Craig Ondarchie MP and State Member for Bundoora, Colin Brooks MP.
Melbourne City FC CEO Scott Munn and MatchWorks General Manager Michael Wasley addressed the gathering and presented program participants with Melbourne City training shirts and caps, while Hyundai A-League player Ivan Franjic was also present to greet the participants.
A total of 28 young males from over 11 different nationalities have registered for the new program – which will be based in Epping and facilitated by MatchWorks – with the Club appointing coach Chris Heugel to run the football sessions.
The group will also visit a street Soccer Program in North Melbourne and will be special guests at the Melbourne City FC’s Hyundai A-League clash against Brisbane Roar on March 18 at AAMI Park.
Commenting on the launch, Melbourne City FC Head of Community Sue Crow said: “After the success of the City Sisters program last year, we are really looking forward to more employment outcomes for this new group of participants. It was great to see this very culturally diverse group of young men of varying ages and abilities enjoying the football session so much. Football is such a great way of bringing people together.”
