DANCE and music can traverse spoken language, and in Bendigo on Saturday soccer also worked to break down barriers.
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Bendigo Community Health Services held a multicultural soccer day at Golden City Soccer Club as part of Men's Health Week, where teams from the Afghan and Karen communities took on Bendigo organisations in seven-a-side matches.
Sixteen teams took to the field for the day, including Bendigo Police, the City of Greater Bendigo and Axe Creek Cricket Club.
Organiser Kaye Graves said soccer was a popular game in all communities.
"The point of the day is to bring us all together for a fun and friendly game of soccer, and for people to meet each other," she said.
"Soccer is a connection between us all."
Today is a special day for us. They are all very excited to be involved.
- Tha Wah
Ms Graves said another reason for the day was to let people know Bendigo Community Health Services also provide support for newly-arrived families.
The fast-footed Karen and Afghan teams dominated throughout the afternoon, with several teams from Swan Hill and Dandenong, as well as all-girl teams.
Karenni coach Tha Wah said the players enjoyed playing other teams.
"During the week they play on fields where ever they can," he said.
"Today is a special day for us.
"They are all very excited to be involved."
Men's Health Week officially starts on Monday and includes a number of events in Bendigo and district.
Lake Weeroona will hold a wooden boat race between local Men's Sheds.
There is also a Ride for Dad on Saturday at the O'Keefe Rail Trail, starting and finishing at Peppercorn Park.