Football is the most popular sport in the world. It sometimes has its ugly side. But football also works its magic by inspiring positive change in communities all around the world. In the author’s own football clubhouse, newcomers to the Netherlands follow Dutch language lessons. The boardroom has been turned into a place for after-school care for local kids. And recently, following their Thursday training, the author heard that two of his teammates were arranging for a young Syrian refugee to join their club soon ‒ so he’ll have something meaningful to do, and a place that makes him feel included.

The author’s club is by no means unique in this regard. Activities like these are happening at thousands of places around the world ‒ probably tens of thousands. Countless initiatives are using the power of football to address issues such as fascism, racism, or homophobia; to promote gender equality, healthy living, or sustainability; to help homeless people or children with disabilities participate in society; or to keep vulnerable youngsters away from crime. This collection of 11 stories from the world of football is a small but powerful reflection of just how beautiful football really is.