FAQ
General
Q. What is the main purpose of Onside Soccer?
A. Onside Soccer is first and foremost a Christian missionary organisation. Our main objective is to spread the gospel message to whoever we come into contact with. We also aim to encourage others look closely at what God's plan for their life may be.
Q. Why football?
A. Football is a sport played and enjoyed by millions of people across the world. It crosses social, religious, political and any other divide you could mention and unites people. It also happens to be the sport that we love!
Visiting an overseas destination
Q. Who can join a tour?
A. We welcome along anyone 18 or over who wishes to participate.
Q. Do I have to be a Christian?
A. No, we welcome anyone who wishes to come along. While we will be following a Christian programme throughout each tour, you will not be required to participate in any activities you do not wish to. However, we would ask that all participants respect the aims of the programme.
Q. Do I have to be good at football to come along or have any coaching experience?
A. Even if you have never kicked a football before you are more than welcome to join us! We have a stuctured programme in place which you will be able to follow regardless of football experience or ability and we will also have staff members on hand to help out as required.
Q. How much does it cost to go on a tour?
A. Each tour is priced individually and costs can vary. Travelling to the developing world can be expensive but we strive to keep costs as reasonable as possible.
Q. What is included in the cost?
A. Flights to destination country, in-country transport, accommodation, three meals per day and water. We also supply coaching equipment for use on the tour.
Q. What isn't included in the cost?
A. Spending money, insurance and vaccinations.
Q. Do I have to organise my own visa?
A. You will have to apply for your own visa but we will be able to provide advice and assistance as required..
Q. Are there any age related issues?
A. At the moment, Onside Soccer requires participants to be 18 years of age or older. There is no upper age limit, although please bear in mind that travelling in the developing world can be quite physically demanding, as can dealing with the heat and humidity.
Q. How physically fit do I have to be to take part?
A. A certain level of fitness is required but you do not have to be super fit to come along. All coaching sessions and other activities we engage in are voluntary and if you are feeling tired you do not have to participate.
Q. Can I bring a group?
A. Yes, if you want to bring a group of friends or come as part of a group that is fine.
Q. Do you hold an orientation day before travelling?
A. Yes, an orientation day will be held approximately six weeks before travelling. This will give everyone an opportunity to get to know one another and we will be able to answer any questions you may have and provide you with your pre-trip pack.
Q. What vaccinations do I require?
A. For legal reasons, we will not advise you on specific medical and vaccination requirements. We advise you to make an appointment with your doctor or health clinic as soon as possible. They are the best people to advise you for the country to which you are travelling. We recommend that you consult your GP before applying if you have any health issues. If we have any questions about the information given on the medical form, we will call to discuss it with you personally. Occassionally we find people with significant complaints we may ask you to get a fitness to travel certificate from the your doctor. It is important that you bring extra supplies of any medications you are taking as these will not be available in country. We expect volunteers to bring their own medication for stomach upsets, diarrhoea, colds, headaches etc. When you buy anti-mosquito spray / roll on - ask the pharmacist about sprays that contain deet as many people say they are more effective. The onus is on you to come to the right decision in consultation with your medical advisors about the correct medication for you. Whilst we have a full first aid kit on site, some of our volunteers bring a ‘travel’ first aid kit that includes syringes/needles which in an emergency you can give to local doctors.
Q. How do you ensure adequete child protection on tours?
A. We ask that all tour participants provide a reference from a church leader who knows you well. We will also require you to provide a current CRB check. While having a criminal conviction does not automatically preclude you from coming along, the nature of the conviction will be taken into consideration.
