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ADIB Future Champions make trip to Sharjah

The Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) extended the national reach of its grassroots football scheme this weekend, with the latest leg of the ADIB Future Champions League taking place at the Sharjah Football Club.

ADIB extended the national reach of its grassroots football scheme this weekend. — Supplied photo

Children aged 10-16 years old from schools in Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah competed in the UAE’s only national football tournament for schools and academies.

Declan Cullinan, from RAK Academy, commented, “We’ve travelled from Ras Al Khaimah today to take part in this fantastic tournament organised by Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank. The children just love playing football, and this is the first time that they’ve had the chance to play in a competitive tournament.”

Presented by Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, the Official Bank of the Arabian Gulf League, this grassroots football scheme began in Abu Dhabi last year, and has expanded into other Emirates for 2014.

Petr Klimes, EVP and group marketing director at ADIB, commented, “It gives us huge pleasure to see these children taking part in the ADIB Future Champions League. We are committed to supporting the future of the UAE’s youth and the development of active and healthy lifestyle through football.”

The tournament will give over 1,000 children from right across the UAE the chance to take part in different qualifying legs, hosted by top AGL clubs. The scheme encourages participation from children from 10-16 years old, and is supported by the Pro League Committee, as well as Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Dubai Sports Council.

Klimes added, “Football is a great game that also helps instil values of teamwork and personal discipline in kids.”