A New Soccer Field Leads to Higher Goals in Cambodia

Our Moms Against Poverty team in Cambodia recently launched a Youth Soccer Program at our school, giving children access to sports while promoting education. Sports, especially soccer, play a crucial role in child development and offer a pathway for impoverished students to integrate into Moms Against Poverty’s education program.

Unfortunately, poverty severely affects children’s education in Cambodia, leading to high dropout rates. A powerful example is Chhit Minea’s story. Born in prison, he was forced to leave his mother at just six years old. He was at high risk of becoming one of the many trafficked children, but thanks to Moms Against Poverty’s orphan and foster care system, he found hope. Through the Youth Soccer Program, he gained stability and discovered a passion for soccer.

Many parents in underprivileged communities rely on their children for financial support, making education a lower priority. However, integrating sports for child development into learning helps overcome these challenges. The new soccer field is more than just a place to play—it serves as an English classroom where vocabulary is taught through the game, improving engagement and retention. This innovative approach highlights the educational benefits of soccer, showing how it can be used as a tool for academic and social development.

Peace Building Through Soccer

Beyond academics, the Youth Soccer Program promotes teamwork, respect, and conflict resolution. Children learn the value of collaboration while also improving their self-confidence. These lessons are a foundation for Moms Against Poverty Cambodia’s upcoming peace and team-building workshops, conducted in cooperation with Forum Civil Peace Service.

Expanding the Youth Soccer Program with a League

Despite the country’s immense love for the sport, Cambodia currently lacks a nationwide system of youth soccer leagues. However, Moms Against Poverty is taking steps to change that. Our soccer field is available for the education program during school hours, but after 5 PM, it is open to all children. The excitement surrounding the upcoming first-ever soccer competition in Prek Takov commune has been incredible, with more kids eager to join.

Chhit Minea is now not only playing but also coaching younger children. “Working as a soccer coach helps me feel important, like I matter. I’ve started asking for extra lessons so I can improve my reading and writing in Khmer. I would love to learn English too. I now believe that if I keep working hard, I can reach all my goals and maybe even more.”

This powerful impact is exactly why Moms Against Poverty in Cambodia is committed to expanding the Youth Soccer Program. By fostering sports for child development, encouraging education, and launching new youth soccer leagues in Cambodia, we are giving children the tools they need to succeed.

Stay tuned for updates on the growing program, and thank you to the Moms Against Poverty community for your continued support. With your help, we can continue making a lasting difference in children’s lives.