Football Federation SA (FFSA) Multicultural Development Officer Steve Lawrie recently took part in a variety of school events at both Parafield Gardens High School and Salisbury High School.

On the 4^th of March, approximately 120 Parafield Gardens High School students took part in small sided games as part of a ‘Come and Try’ imitative. Parafield Gardens High School has a large number of students that are from multicultural backgrounds, many of which are recent arrivals in Australia, and playing the ‘world game’ is a way to bring everyone together.

Following the 4^th of March event, on the 23^rd of March, Harmony Day at Parafield Gardens High School was marked with another event that saw over 240 students playing games and another 100 watching and cheering on their fellow students. The games were fast and frantic but were played in a great spirit, appropriate for the day.

Similarly, Salisbury High School also has a high intake of students from multicultural background. A ‘Come and Try’ session was established on the 18^th of March in conjunction with the school's Harmony Day, with the intention of bringing people from many different cultures together to connect through football. It was particularly hoped that a number of Syrian refugees that have only recently arrived in Australia could connect with their school peers through the love of the game.

A DJ played at the event, ramping up the tempo and ensured the games were fast and furious, as well as highly competitive. Over 120 students too park in the games with an equal amount cheering on from the sidelines.

• Ø  Does your school have a multicultural program that could benefit from a Come & Try session with FFSA? Contact FFSA Multicultural Development Officer Steve Lawrie today on 8340 3088 or at steve.lawrie@ffsa.com.au