East Belfast MLA Chris Lyttle said: “This is a great project that has done a lot for the lives of those who have got involved in the Belfast Street League.
“This is further evidence of the power of football and shows just what it can help achieve. Football can help empower people to overcome disadvantage and challenges in life.
“I would like to commend the work of all those involved in organising this project. They are doing an excellent job and I would encourage more people to lend their support to the Belfast Street League.”
ENDS
Details of the Belfast Street League
The Belfast Street League is a five-a-side football league based on an internationally proven development model with already established leagues in London, Glasgow and Dublin. Over 60 people participate in Belfast Street League on a weekly basis, most are from Hostels and there is also a Refugee and Asylum Seekers Team who participate with support from NICRAS (the Northern Ireland Committee of Refugee and Asylum Seekers). Belfast Street League is in its third year and there are currently plans to develop a Belfast Street League Representative Team and replicate the league in the North West.