These Chicago Afghans Have Built A Community On The Soccer Field
After fleeing the Taliban, a group of Afghans in Chicago have found each other – and strength – through playing soccer.
Shamama soccer team coordinator, Hussein Rezaee, far right, socializes with the rest of the team after a game at West Park in Wilmette, Ill., May 21, 2023.
Rezaee and his son Alisina inflate a soccer ball before heading to their morning practice.
Rezaee helps set up the goal for a morning soccer practice at Lawler Park in Skokie, Ill., June 11, 2023
Afghan soccer players break down equipment after their morning practice.
Rezaee and Jawid Ahmadi watch as Yaghub Ibrahimi, 11, kicks the soccer ball at Lawler Park in Skokie, Ill., June 11, 2023