Abstract

This qualitative study explores the psychosocial and communal impacts of a reciprocal integration initiative where refugees from Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Somalia taught cricket to Americans in New York City, New York and Boise, Idaho (2022–2024). Grounded in Erikson's psychosocial theory and Bandura's self-efficacy framework, the study examines how sport fosters dignity, self-determination, and cross-cultural cohesion. This study recruited 15 refugee coaches and 30 American learners using qualitative methods through interviews, focus groups, and observations. Findings reveal refugee coaches gained self-worth and resolved Eriksonian conflicts, while 78% of American learners reported reduced stereotypes. Cricket fostered social capital, transforming public parks into inclusive "third spaces." Challenges included gender disparities and emotional labor. The study highlights cricket as a tool for integration, emphasizing trauma-informed, refugee-led programs. The study recommends municipal funding, credentialing refugee coaches, and embedding mental health support to enhance sport-based social work initiatives.

Document Type

Article

Source Publication

Sport Social Work Journal

Version

Published Version

Publication Date

Spring 2026

Volume

8

Issue

1

First Page

20

Last Page

33

Rights

The Author(s)

Comments

For questions contact [email protected]

Download

Included in

Social Work Commons

Share

COinS