Support girls learning to play soccer as a Restorative Referee

The traditional structure of girls* soccer leagues leaves many potential participants on the sidelines, particularly girls of color. Soccer gives girls an opportunity to understand their bodies as athletes, build their confidence and voice as leaders, and access a community of supportive peers and mentors. With this in mind, we built a unique community-based 8v8 league called the Global Goal 5 League, or GG5 League, named after the UN Development Goal #5: Gender Equity. The GG5 league is different than traditional NorCal or CalNorth soccer leagues and intentionally reduces barriers for girls to step onto the field. This recreational league is the only one of its kind that is designed for newcomer High School-aged girls just learning to play soccer, is completely free and includes soccer gear and uniforms, staffs the games with coaches and refs who explain the rules of soccer in multiple languages instead of just enforcing rules that the players might not be aware of, and is entirely run and coached by women/non-binary people. Referees play a HUGE role in managing each game and creating an example of leadership that creates an environment where girls can take risks and learn. We are looking for passionate, kind educators who can join us in this project targeting gender equity in sport as Referees for Saturday games at Oakland International High School. Soccer Without Borders can offer volunteers experience with one of the leaders in Sports Based Youth Development, a community of like-minded peers who are inspired to create better game competition for ALL girls who want to play soccer, a Restorative Referee training, and a certificate upon completion of the season that can be used to fulfill community service hours, personal resumés, and other individual aspirations.

*Includes anyone who identifies as a girl, as well as non-binary and gender expansive youth. Everyone deserves a chance to play.