From Iraq to the Illawarra, Hasan finds peace as spark becomes Flame

The talented youngster's family had to flee two war-torn countries on their way to Australia, where Zinah has developed a love for the round ball game.

Born in Iraq, the Hasans escaped to neighbouring Syria when Zinah was just three years old. They remained there for seven years, when they got the opportunity to move down under.

"It was tough and changing countries wasn't quite easy. But you get a hang of it after a while and you can adapt quicker," Zinah said.

"Moving to Australia has allowed me a lot of opportunities and it's obviously a safe place to be with a lot of freedom. I'm very grateful to have made it here."

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Zinah has now enjoyed living in Wollongong for eight years. She started to meet new people through Multicultural Communities Council of Illawarra, which also re-ignited her passion for football in 2018. The MCCI runs a round ball game initiative in conjunction with Football South Coast every Thursday afternoon at the Fraternity Club.

"I always liked football since I was little, but I didn't get the chance to practise it. When I came here, I actually had the chance to start playing," Zinah said.

"The MCCI does little activities and we did soccer training for a few days. They then started doing a soccer program every Thursday after school because we love playing football. It was a chance to play more football, so that's how my friend Ernika and I started going.

"It was a chance to meet new people, and boys and girls can both play. So it was fun to meet people, and practise more and get more experience."

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Zinah is now reaping the benefit of her dedication to the program, becoming one of 30 young players who have made their way on to a team in the Illawarra.

These successful participants were recognised during last week's Female Football Week, a nation-wide initiative celebrate the immense growth of women's football at all levels.

Zinah signed up to play for South Coast Flame, competing in Football South Coast's Women's Division One. The Flame sits in eight spot on the ladder, with the season highlighted by a 5-1 win over Wollongong United earlier this month.

Zinah has found herself at home on the right-hand side of the field, playing either in defence or on the wing.

"It's really good to play for the Flame this season and we're doing alright, and I've actually developed a lot as a player," she said.

"It's a very different experience and they're on a different level. They're so professional with training and the advice they give you. I'm slowly developing to be a better player and I'm really enjoying the opportunity."