Connection Camp unites kids

More than 100 children from across Sydney came together last week for the second Connection Camp – an interfaith initiative founded by Harry Triguboff to foster friendship and social cohesion through sport.

Held over two days during the October school holidays at Sydney FC’s headquarters in Macquarie Park, the camp welcomed primary school aged children from diverse backgrounds.

The program was fully booked, with many on the waitlist.

Conceived by Triguboff and sponsored by Meriton Group, Connection Camp was inspired by his desire to bring communities closer together following the tragic terror attack at Bondi last December.

The initiative was organised with the support of Jewish and Muslim community leaders, in partnership with Liverpool City Council, Sydney FC, Wests Tigers and Maccabi Australia.

The inaugural Connection Camp was held in April.

Stephen Kamper, NSW Minister for Sport and Multiculturalism, attended the latest edition to see its impact first hand and said he was “quite emotional seeing the kids all mixing together”.

Triguboff said, “If these children grow up knowing each other and respecting each other, in spite of any difference of religion or culture, Australia will be a stronger country – that is what I want to achieve with Connection Camp.”

Maccabi Australia CEO David Goldman said, “Watching the children get on, and even form friendships, without focusing on any differences, shows we adults can learn a lot from them.”

Children from different communities played alongside each other in mixed teams, taking part in soccer clinics and games designed to build friendships and mutual respect.

Special appearances by professional Sydney FC and Wests Tigers players added to the excitement.

The program provided complimentary activities, meals and bus transport.

The next Connection Camp will be in December.