North Shields pride in player and clubman Ali
A refugee from Pakistan becomes pride of club after picking up the Most Improved Player award
When you are a refugee, finding a welcoming community and an engaging activity can make a huge difference.
At North Shields RFC, a young man whose family had to leave their home on the Pakistan-Kashmir border arrived at Preston Fields through a local community group that they work with, the Phoenix Detached Youth Project.
He was at Newcastle Falcons and decided he wanted to learn the game, then joined the club, developing a great interest in playing and thanks to help and encouragement was soon running out for the second team. He recently received the man of the match award when North Shields beat Percy Park in a local derby.
Then, at the end of season awards night, amidst applause, club President Bob Hopwood presented Ali with the most improved player award.
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Said Chairman, Ian Hook: “Ali had never before played rugby, so the coaches took extra time to teach him the rules of the game and his teammates guided him and encouraged him throughout the matches.
“Ali is a great asset to North Shields RFC, he’s embraced our club, rugby as a game and is part of our exceptional family here at North Shields. This is what rugby is all about, inclusion and participation.
“We couldn’t be happier or prouder of Ali and all he has achieved on and off the pitch with us here. He rolls up his sleeves and gets involved in club activities, not only playing but regularly helping out in the kitchen on match days. It is truly a pleasure to have helped Ali settle into our community and offer him an opportunity to meet and make new friends through rugby.”
Gaining friends and confidence
Ali said: “I was a shy 22-year-old when I arrived at the club and the coaches told me ‘You have to talk, you have to be heard.’ I didn’t really talk to people before, but they grew my confidence and I soon had friends at the club. I like to help as a volunteer and cook meals for after the match and I love playing rugby. Sometimes you lose the game but you can win although my team are really good. We give our best always on match days.
“At first I played on the wing but then my coaches told me I would be good as a second row and I’m playing lock now. I’m still learning as I didn’t grow up with rugby. Now it’s my sport and I think I have improved, carrying the ball more and I’m always at training and matches. It’s never to late to play rugby, I think people should just jump in and learn. I love the North Shields club. They are there for us all and if I need something, like a reference for the Home Office, I know I will have their support.”
