Home Ground – a story of connection, community and a love of the beautiful game

Prompt start at 4.30pm (doors 4pm).

When Arsalan first arrived in Halifax he was eager to find connection and community in an unfamiliar country. As an avid football fan, he braved the freezing January temperatures and headed to the local stadium where a random act of kindness gave him his first glimmer of hope for a happy life in the UK. This documentary film tells Arsalan’s story, from the young boy who dreamed of becoming a footballer to his role with St Augustine’s Centre helping others seeking sanctuary.

The film also follows members of St Augustine’s FC and explores their lives as people seeking asylum in this country. It examines the critical role that football plays in supporting the team to navigate a complex and often hostile asylum system, and provides a heartwarming insight into how the team helps players to find a home and community in a new country.

Join local filmmaker, Matt Radcliffe, for the premiere of his documentary film, Home Ground. The film, developed in partnership with St Augustine’s Centre in Halifax, follows the head coach and players from St Augustine’s FC and looks at the important role that football plays as they seek asylum and build a new life here in the UK.

The afternoon will also include the screening of a second film, This Valley. Featuring a range of groups that meet to do physical activity in Calderdale, the film explores the current of kindness and community running through the borough.

Alongside the two film screenings, there will also be special performances and a Q&A with the filmmaker and film participants.

The event is free with optional donations to St Augustine’s Centre in lieu of a ticket cost. To donate, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/home-ground-st-augustines-halifax

Home Ground and This Valley are currently going through a classification process to determine an age rating and content advice. Please check back here for further information.

Funding for film production and this premiere event has been provided through Culturedale, Calderdale’s year-long programme of creativity and activity.

Please read our Cinema FAQs page detailing our safety guidance and refunds policy.