In 2016, Soccer Dreams Without Borders contacted Ronesa Academy with a proposal to start a soccer program for the boys and girls attending the school. The organization partners with two other non-profits: East Bay Tottenham Hotspurs and Soccer for Soles located in Vermont and California, to provide bags of uniforms, shoes, balls, and wonderful soccer supplies to the children.
With the generous donations from Soccer Dreams Without Borders, and help from the “futbol” coach at the Government school, Olosha-Oibor Primary School near Ronesa, a brand new soccer program was born.
In the spring of 2016, the children started their first official season and began to learn about the game and practicing in the fields. By the time the US volunteers arrived for their annual visit, it was time for the very first soccer match between Ronesa Academy and Olosho-Oibor Primary school.
It was a sight to behold. For many of the girls, this was their very first time ever kicking a ball. The pride they had wearing a new uniform and representing their school was so much fun to see.
The excitement was palatable and not just for the 2 schools… all of Olosho-Oibor village turned out to watch the fun.
The greatest moment, though, was when the boys finished their game, and the girls were preparing to start their match. Without hesitation, all the boys took off their, “new shoes,” and fitted each of the girls with their shoes to wear for the match. Just one more example of the unconditional love and strong sense of community in Maasailand.
Due to the success of the initiative, Soccer Dreams Without Borders will continue to help Ronesa grow the program in years to come. Next season, they plan on sending coaches to Kenya to accompany the US volunteers to help train and support the coaches at Ronesa Academy and Olosho-Oibor Primary School.
