World Refugee Day: Abdoulaye and Jamshid talk Rovers

For several years now, the Munich Irish Rovers have enjoyed a special relationship with refugees. To celebrate #WorldRefugeeDay, we caught up with Jamshid and Abdoulaye to talk about what Rovers means to them. 

How and when did you come to join the Rovers?

Jamshid: Ali joined Rovers before me – I got to know him at my accommodation. He knew I was already training with Forstenried, but didn’t have a player pass for them. He said I should join the Rovers – that was in April 2016. Gabi filled out my signing up form, back then I couldn’t speak a word of German.
Abdoulaye: Aime from my accommodation brought me Lassina and Lamine to training. That was in April 2016.
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Do you remember your first ever game?

Jamshid: My first game was away in Neuaubing in June 2016.
​Abdoulaye: Yes, my first game was against Neuaubing – we drew.

 
Why is the club important to you?

Jamshid: I like that the Rovers is full of players from different countries and they all made me feel very welcome from day one.
Abdoulaye: This club is like a family for me. The people here are so welcoming. I’ve made lots of friends.


What makes you important to the club?

Jamshid:  Because I always try to give my best and improve my performances.
Abdoulaye: Because I am an important player – the team needs me
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​From which player or coach have you learnt the most?

Jamshid: From Santy.
Abdoulaye: Clyde was very important for me. He helped teach me how to play football in a team here in Germany. 
 

What has been your personal highlight as a Rover, and why?

Jamshid: The promotion season in 2017/18 was my highlight, especially the celebrations afterwards. Other than that, my first goal for the Rovers on 22nd April against Meroni.
Abdoulaye: My highlight was the match against TSV 1860 München. We won 7-0. Lassina was visiting from Italy, which really motivated me.


You’ve had a lot of teammates in your time at the club, who is the best player you’ve played alongside?
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Jamshid:  Santy.
Abdoulaye: My favourite player at the Rovers is Dominic. He's very calm, he always wants to win but is never aggressive. He respects everyone, which is why he's my favourite.