Wednesday 18 / September / 2024
Muscat: The Oman Football Association (OFA) Grassroots team will organise special weekly 'L'aeeb' sessions for children of six to eight years and nine to 12 years.
The first phase of the programme, to be conducted under the guidance of AFC Grassroots expert Jamie Houchen, is scheduled to be held on February 2 and 3 in Seeb.
According to information received from the OFA on Tuesday, the programme is aimed at providing the kids with the opportunities to learn the game in a fun and safe environment as well as play in weekly mini matches.
"Sessions will take place between 4.00 pm and 5.30 pm every week, and children of all abilities will enjoy the “mini match” experience playing with different teammates each week, while learning to play the game, socialise with new friends, and take responsibility for their own matches, including keeping scores and refereeing," the OFA statement said.
The youngest group of players will be playing in four against four players with level going up to six against six and eight against eight as per the age groups.
"Children will benefit from playing the game in a realistic yet scaled down version, and experience the thrill of scoring goals, making tackles, defending and attacking, all within a fun yet competitive environment with no pressure on winning or losing," the statement added.
"With at least four mini matches in every session, results will be forgotten as children focus on enjoying the game, and being the best they can as they learn each week and focus on weekly challenges."
The OFA also informed that the association is committed to providing these sessions on a weekly basis free of charge, and are working with community clubs in the regions of Suwaiq, Sohar, Sur, Nizwa and Salalah to establish local OFA approved sessions in each of these communities with a target of 1,000 children playing L’aeeb each week from the ages of six and above.
"Free equipment will also be given to these clubs, provided by the AFC, UEFA and FIFA acknowledging the OFA’s commitment to developing grassroots football," the statement said.
"Talented players from these sessions will be offered the opportunity to progress to Club Skill Development Academies as part of the OFA talent development pathway, ensuring that Oman’s next generation of talent has the opportunity to flourish under the watchful eye of OFA coaches," it added.
Jim Selby, OFA Technical Director, said: “Initiatives like these are absolute key for the OFA, as we need to ensure children from the age of six are provided with quality playing opportunities, within a fun yet challenging environment. They will fall in love with the game, while playing with their friends in the community on a weekly basis, supported by coaches, who are happy for the children to “own” their game, and be supported by them, not restricted by them!"
For registration and other details, contact OFA coach Karim at 98095940.
