As part of this year’s Refugee Week celebrations, Calderdale Valley of Sanctuary will present a special screening of The Long Away Game, a powerful short documentary directed by Hannah Congdon, following the extraordinary journey of Afghan refugee footballer Sabriah.
When the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, Sabriah was evacuated from Kabul during a rescue mission described by the press as a “modern-day Schindler’s List.” The film traces her inspiring journey as she begins a new chapter in Yorkshire as the community captain of her football club, balancing her passion for the game with the memories of the life and homeland she was forced to leave behind.
Director Hannah Congdon said: “Sabriah’s story is a testament to the power of sporting communities. Football has transformed her life — as she says in the film, without it she wouldn’t be the person she is today.”
The afternoon will also feature Home Ground, a moving short film by local filmmaker Matt Radcliffe. Following the St Augustine’s football team, the documentary explores the important role that football plays as the team seek asylum and build a new life with dignity here in the UK.
A special guest will join the post-screening Q&A session.
Book your free seats here: https://bit.ly/TLAG2026