Fida in cooperation with the IFF have launched floorball in Laos in order to support schools and youth centres.

Photo by Khamla Douangchandeng

Fida is a Finnish missions and development cooperation organisation working in 51 countries. The cooperation between Fida and the IFF began when Päivi Jokivuori from Fida contacted the IFF and asked support for the Fida schools in Savannakheti region. Soon enough floorball became part of the Fida missionary and the local sports government were interested after they saw the students play the sport.

So far, the IFF has donated goalkeeper kits and approximately 400 sticks for the children and youngsters in Laos. Now floorball is being played in an organised matter in youth centres and tens of schools.

Representatives of the Laos Olympic Committee and Sports Government thanking the IFF Secretary General John Liljelund for the cooperation. Fida representative Päivi Jokivuori on the right. Photo by Sompasong Sayamoungkhoune

– There has already been referee- and coaching seminars in order to support the development of the sport. Also, there is going to be a floorball tournament for the junior high students at the end of this month and a tournament for the high school students in November, says Jokivuori.

Taking up floorball is rather inexpensive and that’s why the growth of the sport is fast especially in Southeast Asia.
– Floorball has also been played in Southeast Asian Games, which has grown into a remarkable sports event in Asia, says the IFF Secretary General John Liljelund.

Floorball is a good sport for development cooperation, because it’s not only interesting but also equal. The equipment is rather inexpensive and the sport can be played in different environments.
– The sport is easy to play in schools, because it can be played on asphalt or concrete and since the players are shifting it can be played by many students. The sport is also suitable for girls, who might not be interested in football which is already a popular sport in Laos, says Jokivuori.

Photo by Khamla Douangchandeng

Fida is a Finnish faith-based development cooperation and aid organisation. working in 48 countries bringing hope and a future to the poorest of the poor. In particular, they are working to improve the rights of vulnerable children.

Read more about Fida on their webpage.