Warshan Hussin’s journey reflects resilience and the restorative power of community, particularly through soccer. His story begins at the soccer field adjacent to Northeast Middle School in Baltimore’s Moravia neighborhood, a place where memories flood back in both joyful and painful ways. With memories of an abandoned school framing a long-lost childhood, Hussin takes a moment to reflect, realizing how much the field meant to him when he first arrived in America as a Syrian immigrant.
The Early Years
At the tender age of 10, Warshan and his family fled Iraq after his father was abducted by armed forces during the chaos of war. What followed was a series of traumatic experiences that shaped Warshan’s early years. After his father’s return—miraculous yet harrowing, marked by signs of torture—his family was forced to leave the country again, this time heading to Syria. Settling in a new country did not erase the scars of their past; instead, it deepened Warshan’s sense of isolation and anxiety, especially in crowded school halls.
By the age of 13, the Hussin family immigrated to Baltimore. Here, Warshan faced new struggles, including bullying, and the emotional toll of adapting to a vastly different culture. With limited English, he sought solace through connection, which eventually came through the Soccer Without Borders program. This initiative aimed to help refugee and immigrant youth create community through soccer, giving Warshan a necessary outlet amidst his turbulent life experiences.
Finding Community Through Soccer
Joining Soccer Without Borders changed everything for Hussin. As he stepped onto the field, it was as if the weight of the world lifted momentarily. The sport created a universal language among players from diverse backgrounds, allowing them to bond beyond cultural and linguistic barriers. Warshan formed lifelong friendships and learned valuable life skills from coaches like Jill Pardini, who inspired him with a vision of possibility—encouraging each child to believe that they could become whoever they wanted to be, a message that would resonate with him for years to come.
For Hussin, the field was a safe haven, a place where he could be free from distressing memories. After graduating from the program in 2015, he returned as a coach and eventually became actively involved in the organization’s board of directors. Hussin now shares insights and resources to help younger members navigate their challenges, reinforcing the community’s essence that once helped him thrive.
Impact and Growth of Soccer Without Borders
Soccer Without Borders has grown exponentially, now reaching thousands of children annually through various programming efforts. The program offers not just soccer training, but also academic support and health resources, creating a well-rounded support system for immigrant families. Hussin notes the organization’s shift from mainly focusing on sports to incorporating life skills and educational components based on the kids’ needs.
In the wake of changing political landscapes and increased fears among immigrant communities, Soccer Without Borders remains vigilant and proactive. Staff undergo training to adequately handle potential concerns related to immigration policies, ensuring that families feel secure and informed. The dedication to delivering vital resources empowers young immigrants, helping them navigate the complexities of life in America despite external challenges.
Warshan Hussin’s dedication to this mission speaks volumes about the community built through soccer. Even as he ventures into new career opportunities—balancing facilities management while serving on the board—his heart remains with the youth influenced by these programs. In Hussin’s words, “If I do my job right, one of these days in the future, one of you will be doing this job,” perfectly encapsulating his vision of growth, empowerment, and ongoing support through the love of soccer.