The Ramadan Soccer Tournament at the North Melbourne Recreational Centre was held in partnership with AMSSA Youth Connect over three weekends in March, with games played on Friday and Saturday nights from 10pm – 1am, allowing those observing Ramadan to fully participate.

Eight teams, predominantly from North Melbourne, Flemington, and Kensington participated in this vibrant and energetic competition with strong support from local families and community leaders, showcasing the power of sport to foster community spirit and youth engagement. 

Ramadan Soccer Tournament Highlights:

• Stronger Community & Connection; The tournament brought together 8 competitive teams and over 150 spectators each night, creating an electric atmosphere. Beyond the sport, it fostered deep connections across generations, strengthening bonds between youth, parents, and community leaders.

• Resilience & Mental Strength; Players demonstrated remarkable perseverance, competing while fasting and attending night prayers. They adapted to the physical and mental challenges of Ramadan, developing a resilient mindset and learning to manage stress more effectively.

• Spiritual & Personal Growth; Participants reported a heightened sense of faith and motivation, with many expressing that their experiences reinforced the belief that "anything is possible with faith." The discipline built during the tournament extended beyond Ramadan, helping players form better habits in nutrition, fitness, and daily routines.

• Physical & Athletic Development; Competing while fasting pushed players to new limits, enhancing stamina, endurance, and overall fitness. This was particularly evident among those playing at a professional level, such as in the Melbourne Premier League (MPL), who noted performance improvements.

• Breaking Barriers & Fostering Inclusion; By bringing together young people from diverse communities across Melbourne, the tournament became more than just a game—it was a platform for overcoming social and cultural divides, encouraging teamwork, unity, and mutual respect.

Young people in the inner city areas of North Melbourne, Flemington and Kensington face a lack of organised, engaging and affordable activities. Especially during Ramadan many often struggle to find positive outlets for their energy, particularly during the evenings after breaking their fast. The tournament sought to create an inclusive space where young people could come together to stay active, engage with their peers, and experience a sense of community.

Additionally, there was a need for an event that bridged the gap between neighbouring North Melbourne communities and youth from other suburbs, including Dandenong and Wyndham - Hoppers Crossing, to connect. The aim was to provide a platform for healthy competition and interaction, all while fostering a sense of belonging and pride in the community.

The Ramadan Soccer Tournament provided the perfect solution to these challenges. By organising an exciting and inclusive event during the Ramadan period, young people were given a healthy, engaging activity that kept them active and involved in their community. The tournament not only offered an outlet for physical activity but also created an environment where players from diverse backgrounds could form friendships and break down social barriers.

Each night the event brought around 80 participants together with more than 150 regular spectators - comprising local youths, parents, and community leaders, filling the North Melbourne Recreational Centre with energy and excitement.

The tournament's success was built on its ability to foster both competition and camaraderie among the youth. This environment encouraged personal growth, teamwork, and leadership among the young athletes, while also strengthening the bonds between the wider community and local leaders.

The tournament successfully achieved its goal of engaging youth and building community spirit. The packed recreation centre, with its buzzing atmosphere, was a testament to how sports can energise and unify a community.

Moreover, the event's ability to bridge the gap between different neighbourhoods was a significant achievement, helping to foster greater understanding and friendships across diverse groups, and reinforcing the tournament's role in community-building.

"It’s amazing to see so many young people come together for the tournament from all different parts of Melbourne, all with one common goal—to play soccer and build community. and then to win that tournament, I’m going home happy."

– Tournament Participant/ player of winning team