APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Merci Tuyishime is just one of the students who’ve benefited from Appleton school’s efforts to help refugees who end up in the city.
“He’s just jumped right in, and the team has embraced him,” District Refugee Engagement Specialist Kelley Deuhring said.
The junior from Congo has been playing varsity soccer with Appleton North for two weeks. Despite the challenges he’s faced, head coach Kevin Murphy says he’s a great player with a great personality.
“I’m just happy to see him smile out there having fun with the guys at practice — coming in late, it’s not the easiest, but he’s just one of the guys now.”
Merci and his family have now been in Wisconsin for about three months. Playing the sport he loves has helped him through this new phase of his life. His parents say it’s all he wanted to do.
“He’s just happy playing soccer,” Merci’s father Mutarambirwa said.
It hasn’t always been easy for the family, which is why Deuhring has done everything possible to help.
“We know the importance of kids being connected with other students but also on teams,” Deuhring said. “That just gives them more support. Being invited to American’s homes is huge for the refugee community, so that just naturally happens on teams.”
And Merci’s parents say it’s been heartwarming to see their son enjoying himself in his new home.
“It makes us happy, and it makes Merci happy,” Mutarambirwa said.
The refugee workers at Appleton North are currently providing for more than 50 first-generation students speaking at least four different languages.
Deuhring says it’s been more difficult for those in the program who have a language barrier, although she’s seen positive progress for most of the refugees.
