In the heart of Oakland, a modest field becomes a sanctuary for youngsters who have crossed oceans to start anew. The Soccer Without Borders program welcomes immigrant and refugee youth, offering them a place to play, learn and build lasting connections.
A Family on the Field
Coach Neidry Lobato greets each player with a warm embrace, insisting that the team is more than a squad — it is a family that stretches across continents. "We are here for each other, on and off the pitch," he says, emphasizing the stability the program provides.
Among the coaches is Dr. Hajar Abulfazl, a former co‑captain of the Afghanistan women’s national team. Her own journey from the international stage to this local field illustrates how soccer can shape voice and confidence, especially for young women navigating a new culture.
As the world’s attention turns to the upcoming World Cup, the organization seizes the moment to teach its participants that the tournament is not only a competition but also a lesson in resilience and shared dreams. The global event becomes a backdrop for local growth.
Players confront language barriers, cultural adjustments and the uncertainty of resettlement, yet the simple act of passing a ball offers a common language that bridges those divides. The sport becomes a conduit for friendship and understanding.
Lobato says he is driven by the chance to guide these youngsters through the complexities of their new lives in the United States, helping them build stability one practice at a time. The program’s impact reverberates far beyond the field, shaping futures.