It isn’t easy being an orphaned elephant, but since its creation in 1977, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust has offered hope for the future of Kenya’s threatened elephant and rhino populations. The “Orphan’s Project” is the most successful orphaned elephant rescue and rehabilitation program in the world.

As the world celebrates the start of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and following a visit from star African footballer Yaya Touré of Manchester City, football fever gripped the keepers at the Nairobi Nursery. Watch as the elephants couldn’t help themselves from joining in!

And start planning your own safari to see these playful animals in the wild!