Playing (Soccer) For Change in Nicaragua

Hello everyone! My name is Zoe Jackson-Gibson and I am the year-long Team Leader for the Soccer Without Borders Granada, Nicaragua location. What exactly does being a Team Leader consist of? From term to term this can vary based upon the needs of the program. But right now I help to conduct the daily activities between our seven teams, I make school visits and introduce the other girls to our program, and I tutor English!

I cannot believe I am about to say this, but I have been a part of this program for roughly five months now and have loved every second of it. When I look back at the time spent here, I could not be more grateful for everything that I have experienced. From the smiles and laughs I’ve shared with the girls and my fellow coaches, to the overall generosity of the Granada community, living in Nicaragua has been such a moving and enlightening experience. I know I’ll carry all of these memories with me well after my time with SWB Granada is over.

I already know one of my favorite moments will be the time we hosted T.E.A.M Camp in the beginning of January. For this camp, we invite those who are 18 years of age or older to volunteer with us as coaches for a week and assist in facilitating activities on and off the field for our girls.

Before the camp started, I was so excited to show our visitors what I have experienced here and how much I loved the program. But as time went on, I discovered that everyone’s experience of Granada is different and that was very eye-opening. With only a handful of the visitors able to speak Spanish, we came together and learned how the power of sport can carry you through what seemed to be nearly impossible tasks. And with that followed, the first juggling circle being made, the first smile being cracked, and the first bag of mangos shared. Instantaneous connections were made among the 17 campers, the SWB Granada Staff, and our girls, which will always hold a special place in our hearts. What this camp now represents to me is what great effect a small group of committed and thoughtful individuals can do when they come together to make a change.

I have now hit my mid-way mark with five more months left as a Team Leader and I am more than ecstatic to see what else my future holds, especially as these relationships continue to grow.

Much love from Nica,

Zoe