Osmani Trust’s Football In The Community Project (FITC) celebrated the national Week of Action in October in fine style as they held two weeks of activities from school based workshops, half term soccer camp to a one day football tournament. The FITC project which is the only project in the country to be ambassadors for Kick It Out spread the message of peace and harmony through sports.
The school based workshops were very popular among local schools and the project was over subscribed, The FITC project delivered six workshops in three different schools looking at racism and discrimination in sports and in general life. Abdal Ahmed, Football Development Manger at Osmani Trust said “I always enjoying delivering these workshops, not only because it’s a topic close to my heart but also as it give these young people a platform to express their views and experiences”
One Year 6 teacher said of the workshops “The children and I were really happy with the workshops. The content was addressed in a serious and responsible manner but with great positivity and enthusiasm”
The other major activity the FITC project hosted was the Under 14 tournament at Mulberry Girls School. The Tournament was a chance for local teams in Tower Hamlets and neighbouring boroughs to play competitive football in a friendly atmosphere. The FITC project had to turn away teams as so many teams wanted to enter but we only have room for ten teams.
The football proved to be a very high standard; however, one team looked very strong from the start. Elite Youth reached the final without loosing a game scoring over 30 goals on the way. Their opposition in the final were local rivals Shadwell YO.
Both teams played some good football and due to the strong defences were unable to break the dead lock in the first half. Elite Youth’s strength and experience showed in the second half as they caught Shadwell out with a quick free kick from which lead to Elite Youth’s first goal. As Shadwell tried to find an equaliser Elite Youth scored a second goal to win the match 2-0.
Sana Miah tournament organiser said, It was wonderful to see so many young people from different backgrounds playing together in this great friendly atmosphere where the game is main focus not ones colour, appearance, ethnicity or background.
If you would like more information about the services offered by Osmani Trust please contact 020 7247 8080 or info@osmanitrust.org