The 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup provided a number of unique firsts of the beautiful game’s role as a social vehicle of change. As the first major world -sporting event to be held on the African Continent, the World Cup provided a number of challenges and opportunities to the newest democracy in the Republic of South Africa.

Another major first will have been the role of soccer as the largest participative sporting pastime globally. The social and human development of young people and communities still struggling to reconstruct and rebuild their lives following the past apartheid era has been a strong central theme in the bidding and hosting of this global spectacle. As a result, many social and grass root football programmes, projects and initiatives were delivered providing a unique insight as to the real and tangible impact sport and the beautiful game of soccer is able to contribute in the areas of educational attainment, a healthy and vibrant lifestyle and opportunity that can lead to a civil and social order that will see crime reduced to the levels that existed during the month long tournament.

The environment and impact of the 19th FIFA Soccer World Cup and a country deemed unable to provide infrastructure, operational management and delivery again reflected a continent written off too often. The real legacy of the 2010 South Africa World Cup however will not be on the exciting matches and world stars who competed for one of the greatest prizes in sport, but reflected in the legacy off the pitch and the nation building and pride that will result from a Republic and a Continent that can build on the legacy of confidence, resilience and hope.

The Youth Charter has been a consistent philosophy, mission aim and objective presence, contribution and witnessing of every step from the ‘Vision for Sport’ Conference for a new South Africa to the achievements and faces in the South Africa crowds who made this tournament unique from the continent and birthplace of civilisation.

So much has been written, said and reported over the last month. However, it will be the legacy of opportunity reflected in this historical unique and exclusive experience that will provide an ongoing spirit of hope reflected in the Youth Charter’s journey to date.

Soccerwise Education Pack

Soccerwise Equality and Social Inclusion Toolkit

Youth Charter Soccerwise Report