The Big Issue

Toni

TONI WHELAN (SA)

This vivacious 20 year old from Adelaide is the only female member of the 2008 Street Socceroos team. In June 2007, Toni joined The Big Issue’s Street Soccer Program despite never having played soccer before. She is now getting ready to pit her talents against street soccer teams from across the world.

Through the Street Soccer Program Toni has enjoyed making new friends and being part of the supportive environment. “Our team in Adelaide is one big happy family”, she says.

Toni was awarded Best Female Player of the 2008 National Street Soccer Championships, and has been kicking goals off the field as well.

“Homelessness has been a challenge in the past, but now I have stable accommodation,” says Toni. “Things are tops – absolutely, and I’m just about to start a new job.”

Her advice to other people experiencing homelessness is to “keep your head up and not give up. Support and encouragement from others is also important.”

When Toni returns from the Homeless World Cup she plans to get back into TAFE and do an IT course.

Toni will celebrate her 21^st birthday during the Melbourne 2008 Homeless World Cup, and being part of the team appears to be a great birthday present!

”I’m on top of the world! Representing Australia is a once in a life time opportunity,” she says. “Winning would be good, but I would prefer that everyone just has a great time with lots of team spirit.”

(Photo by  Michale Brown - Photoworx)