The Captain
A story of integration in Sweden
This is a story of integration through the eyes of immigrant David Durmaz, an Assyrian who was born in Sweden. David is the captain of Assyriska Föreningen Football Club - a club based in the city of Södertälje. As Sweden becomes increasingly anti-immigrant, David says he carries the burden of being a role model to fellow Assyrians.
Produced by : Li Zhuoda, Reshma Ailmchandani, Tan Si Hui
SPORTS AS A WAY TO FOSTER BONDS
In Sweden, sports is a way to foster bonds for the immigrant community.
Football club Assyriska Fotbollsföreningen (or Assyriska FF) was formed in 1974 by Assyrian immigrants.
They train daily at the Södertälje Fotbollsarena, which is located 30km south-west of Stockholm Central.
LIKE A FAMILY
Over 500 people came to support the league game between AFF and Varbergs BoIS. The team created a sensation in 2005 when they broke into Sweden’s top football league, Allsvenskan. “ We are very serious, and we’ve worked for this. It’s something we are very proud of,” said Assyriska FF media manager Aydin Aho. The teams drew 0-0 in this match.
There is a strong sense of camaraderie among the spectators. The football club has become a symbol of pride in the Assyrian community, and has given them an identity and institution to rally behind.
Media manager of Assyriska FF, Aydin Aho says the ties in the club are close-knit, much like a family. Said the 41-year-old, “Through football, we have a bigger responsibility in instilling the with the right values, tradition and culture.”
A PLACE TO CONGREGATE
Swedish restaurant Gasellen, consists of mostly Assyrian staff, says waitress Norma Aphren, 38. For many Assyrians living in Södertälje, including Assyriska FF team members, this local restaurant has become a favourite place to congregate over meal times.
A SCHOOL FOR ASSYRIAN CHILDREN
Elafskolan, the first school with a high Assyrian profile, opened its doors in September in 2014. More than 70 pupils from first grade to sixth grade have enrolled there.
Headmaster Helmuth Lavicka, decided to open Elfaskolan, because of concerns about the lack of jobs, schools and housing for the Assyrian community. He said, “The idea was to give the children more knowledge about their common cultural background and history.”
A HERO TO THE CHILDREN
Assyrian FF captain David Durmaz, is revered as a hero to the children at Elafskolans. He makes the effort to visit the school three to four times a week to coach them in football tactics. He has plans to start a soccer school in the future.
An immigrant himself, David takes it upon himself to be a role model for the boys. “Back then I was like a young pup. Now it’s my turn to show the children how to be aware of their actions and carry themselves well. It’s a big responsibility,” he says.
