Sport Minister Steve Kamper reiterated his support for volunteers and referees last week, highlighting the ongoing need to treat these grassroots sporting heroes with the respect and appreciation they deserve.
“Whether you’re an aspiring Olympian looking towards Brisbane 2032, or just want to kick a ball around with some friends, sport brings us all together,” he said.
“The recent violence experienced by Khodr Yaghi, was shocking and unacceptable and more needs to be done to stamp out this behaviour.”
Still recovering from his injuries, Mr Yaghi was hoping to return to refereeing this season but that now seems doubtful.
“I have been told by my doctors that it will be a good three to six months before I can referee again,” he said.
Now dealing with another blow, although not a physical one, he told The Torch: “The first 10 days after the assault were the easiest because I was just dealing with the pain but now I’m having dreadful nightmares, I just wish it would stop.”
On a brighter note, Minister Kamper has visited the Yaghis’ Chester Hill home to present him with a football autographed by FIFA secretary General Fatma Samoura.
“It means so much to get that kind of support,” Mr Yaghi said.
“Being a soccer player and with the FIFA Women’s World Cup kicking off in July, it was just so special and I really appreciate the support from FIFA and Mr Kamper and well wishes from everyone.”
