Mayada Ali, 19, said she's grateful for the "gifts" her brother passed on to her including "strength, patience, courage, and love for football".
It was through the sport played with the round ball that she's keeping the memory of her brother alive, and inspiring others.
She coaches a community football team at Club Reclink and Football Futures Foundation in memory of her brother who passed away in April 2023 from sarcoma cancer.
‘Salih’s Team’ is made up of players of various ages and nationalities.
"Each time I walk past the park where (he) taught me the game, I smile and reflect," Ali told SBS Kurdish.
"He truly instilled in me a love for soccer rooted in compassion and sharing."
Salih was born in 2007 in Derik, a small town in a Kurdish region of Syria.
Due to the civil war that engulfed Syria, the family moved to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
Salih was diagnosed with cancer at the age of six and underwent various treatments.
The family arrived in Australia when he was 13 years old, and at that time, he was cancer-free.
His cancer returned in 2022 when he was 15 and he passed away on 7 April 2023.
Mayada and Salih Ali. Credit: Supplied
Although her brother was unwell, Ali said he still made an effort to attend training.
Unfortunately, he was unable to participate in matches, but it was evident that he had made significant progress in a remarkably short period, she said.
"Salih had a profound passion for soccer and aspired to become a professional player, dreaming of participating in a FIFA World Cup one day," she said.
"I vividly recall him expressing his desire to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup."
She said she had taken up football in memory of her brother, who cherished the game.
Fostering 'a sense of connection'
Ali said her coaching style was to foster "a sense of connection" among the players, allowing them to experiment and explore their skills.
Player Misha said Ali created an atmosphere where everyone felt joyful and united.
"As a Zimbabwean, I have always been drawn to soccer due to its popularity in my homeland, and I played during my youth," she said.
"A recent church camp rekindled my passion for the sport, prompting me to join the soccer sessions with Mayada, which have proven to be both rewarding and enjoyable.
"Mayada is an exceptional coach who brings a sense of fun to training. She maintains control over the team and possesses a clear understanding of the game, inspiring players to engage in soccer daily without losing interest."
Another member of the team, Kasem, said Ali manages both the team dynamics and the challenges the team faces.
"As a Syrian, soccer serves as my outlet for happiness and enjoyment, allowing me to channel any negative energy in my life."
Mayada Ali is a popular coach with her players. Credit: Supplied
When she decided to lace up her boots, she said her family "struggled" as they were used to seeing both children in matching jerseys.
“(Now) As a coach and trainer, I face various challenges daily. Each day presents new obstacles.
"I have had to learn to communicate effectively as some of our players do not speak English. (However) I firmly believe that soccer serves as a universal language."
Salih Ali, Mayada's late brother, was passionate about football. Credit: Supllied
"My brother’s spirit remains with me.
"(His) dream has touched many lives. (He) aspired to achieve recognition in a positive manner and to uplift others. Today, we have realised a portion of that dream.
"As I often say, and I am certain my brother would concur, when dreams are fuelled by love, they endure indefinitely."
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Meyade Elî xewna birayê xwe tîne cîh
