Leaders spread joy of football in the community with fun-filled football carnival

07/06/2023

Football is a wonderful activity, and that joy magnifies when one is able to share the game with children in the local community. Our student leaders recently organised a joint football carnival for 78 primary school students from different districts around Hong Kong. The project gave the leaders an opportunity to put into practice everything they have learnt from the programme, spreading the joy of football and bringing laughter to the children in the community.

The leaders were responsible for everything in the preparation for the carnival, from early-stage planning and on-day equipment, to leading warm-up exercises and organising group competitions. Joseph, a student, said: "My biggest personal goal was to make sure all participating children can have fun here."

Christopher O'Brien, Head Coach of Manchester United Football School Hong Kong said: "The student leaders successfully created a carefree, safe and positive environment where the children could enjoy an unforgettable and fun football experience."

The carnival successfully concluded amidst the laughter of children. Based on a review of their overall performance over the last few months, six outstanding students were selected by the programme social workers and tutors to go on an exchange trip to Manchester, England. There they will participate in volunteer training and organise community football activities, further progressing on their journeys to becoming youth leaders.

Student leader Wong Ka-chun high-fives a student to celebrate a goal, showing the leadership quality of good communication.

Joseph said that ensuring the children understand the details about the warm-up and matches could help them get more engaged in enjoying football.

Captain JC’s appearance at the carnival became an instant hit, adding much vitality to the event.

OB thinks that the student leaders successfully transformed the football carnival into a fun platform for learning.

With such a safe and positive environment, it’s only natural that the children can be happy and carefree when they play!

During the activity, student leader Lui Lok-yiu (centre) gave a child a much-needed confidence boost.

The student leaders, children, parents, social workers and mentors team up for a group photo, marking a perfect end to this joyful football experience.

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The first of its kind in Hong Kong, this leadership and community service training programme for young people demonstrates the Club’s spirit of excellence by nurturing youth physically, mentally and socially