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9.
November
2018.
Special award for Tresillian Tigers

A football team from one of Cardiff's homeless hostels has been recognised for the spirit in which they play the game.

Tresillian Tigers, the team that represents the Council's city centre Ty Tresillian hostel, has been presented with a Fair Play award at the Street Football Wales end of season presentation for their good sportsmanship, dedication and positive attitude towards playing the game.

The mixed team was established two years ago under the guidance ofhostels services night officer, Keith Hopkins,to provide a focus for residents, helping to build friendships and combat loneliness. 

The side plays in the Street Football Wales east league against teams from other hostels in the region and in a short space of time, they have enjoyed considerable success, with one team member, Katherine Lewis, being selected to represent Wales at this month's Homeless World Cup in Mexico.

Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, Cllr Lynda Thorne, said: "Congratulations to Tresillian Tigers for this fantastic achievement. How you play the game is as important as the end result and so I'm really delighted to see the team recognised in this way.

"I know that being part of the team has had a real impact on the Tresillian residents involved. Many homeless individuals go through periods of isolation so playing in the team and having a focus has really helped them. Keith has done a fantastic job,working with the team both on and off the pitch to ensure they present a positive image."

Tresillian Tigers' achievements are the latest good news for homeless football in the city, after last month's announcement that next year's Homeless World Cup will be played in Cardiff.