Playing soccer in Argentina

Growing populations in the suburbs combined with a spluttering economy means many children experience social deprivation. This project in the lively city of Posadas gives the children something to look forward to as well as keeping them fit and healthy. It doesn’t matter if you’re not blessed with natural talent because just as valuable as the sport itself is the daily contact with native English speakers and the chance to experience an exchange of cultures. Besides, as they’re Argentinean they’ll probably be able to teach you all you need to know on the football field anyway! The project aims to promote recreational games and healthy competition between the children, giving them something positive to focus on, rather than alcohol and drugs.

*Other dates and durations may be available, call us at 1.888.461.0231 for more information.

Trip Highlights:
*Unearthing the next Maradona or Messi!
*Making friends in the community and getting to know the real Argentinian way of life
*Sampling Mate – one of Argentina’s most popular drinks

Project details:

Argentina

i-to-i volunteers will work with communities located in the suburbs of Posadas that were built within the past few years in response to growing populations in the suburbs. Volunteers will support the coaching programme in neighbourhood areas that coach soccer as well as other sports such as volleyball. The project aims to promote recreational games and healthy competition between the children and to help them focus on games rather than alcohol and drugs.

Why the project needs volunteers:
There are several reasons for the project seeking the assistance from volunteers: for example the advantage of learning different soccer techniques, and other sports, the cultural exchange and the positive advantage children will gain from spending time with native English speakers. The combination of coaching sports with teaching young people English will make a positive impact on their lives and provide more opportunities in the future to them, such as going to university, getting jobs in tourism, business and commerce.

What kind of skills you need to go this project:

Children playing in Argentina

Volunteers most of all for these projects must have a love of sports and be committed to the project. You will need to be flexible and be willing to get involved in anything. You will need to be able to think on your feet so that you are able to tailor your coaching sessions to the different needs of the children if necessary. Spanish language is not a pre-requisite but a working knowledge would be a great advantage as most people do not speak English. The add-on Spanish lessons are recommended they will help you to settle into your project.

Your role as a volunteer:
This project aims to improve education and culture in children through sports. This project promotes competitions and recreational activities to encourage interaction between communities. Volunteers will assist coaches to arrange and conduct training sessions as well as ad-hoc English lessons to the children. Volunteers will be working alongside children from disadvantaged backgrounds and build friendships over a common ground.

Where the project is based:
The communities are all based in the suburbs of Posadas, a lively city which has a population 250,000. Posadas boasts interesting markets, friendly cafes, cinemas and museums, and there will be plenty to do on the weekends. The mystical Jesuit ruins of San Ignacio Mini are 34 miles to the east of Posadas and are a must see while you are there. Volunteers should fly into the airport at Posadas (PSS) on the specific arrival date.