ETC Crew and The ARK

Soccer Stunts from South Africa Street Soccer Docum on Vimeo.

Yesterday, Demetrius and I spent the morning and early afternoon at The Ark, a community for individuals dealing with homelessness and/or addictions. It is a fenced in community in the township of Khayalitcha that has been around since the mid 80s and now has a full school, provides housing for families, men, women and children, offers rehabilitation programs, meals for the students, athletic and creative opportunities, as well as social gatherings. It is entirely volunteer led by individuals who have come through the programs and community there.  Riaan and Thapelo, two players on the Homeless World Cup team live at The Ark.

ETC Crew

In the afternoon, we went to film the ETC Crew in their studio and captured three of their tracks. Demetrius  and I are excited to use this music and footage to support the rest of the story. I’d tell you how, but then you’d have nothing to look forward to….

This morning we got up and spent some time at the team’s practice. They are still down one man due to sickness, and Rasta, their keeper, has injured one of his thumbs and is a bit slower than usual. It is not looking promising that Martin will be able to go to Australia. The closer the Homeless World Cup gets, the less likely it is that the pieces will come together in time.

Riaan at Practice

Tonight, we headed to Zula on Long Street for the ETC Crew’s show. The house was packed–we were on the second floor of the building and the floors were shaking as the crowd jumped and danced along with the crew. I can’t lie, there were moments where my mind drifted to pictures of the floor caving in and what kind of stories they’d tell my mother when the news hit. It was nothing but good energy, however, and the guys put on a great show. They have a solid following who are full of energy and excitement.

All in all, it’s been a great few days and we have a packed week coming up, as well. Stay tuned….