MUSCAT: The West Asia Football Festival for People with Disabilities 2024 began on Tuesday in Muscat. Hosted by the Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Oman Football Association (OFA), in collaboration with the WAFF Foundation, the event takes place at Al Amal Sports Club.
Held under the slogan 'Safe Play: Fun and Learning', the festival aims to promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in sports and social activities, while developing their athletic skills in an interactive and safe environment. The opening ceremony was attended by representatives from the OFA, the West Asia Football Federation for People with Disabilities, as well as parents and advocates for disability sports.
Three teams are participating in the festival, representing Oman, Saudi Arabia and Jordan. They will compete in mini-games and interactive training sessions designed to encourage athletic interaction and the exchange of experiences among players.
The two-day festival includes training sessions, mini-games and specialised workshops aimed at developing football for people with disabilities and enhancing safety measures during sports activities.
On the first day, practical training programmes featured diverse skill sessions and interactive matches under the slogan 'Play Together, Win Together'. The festival will conclude with a celebratory session highlighting the importance of sports for all.
The second day’s programme includes a workshop on the development of football for people with disabilities. Expert speakers will discuss ways to advance this field and ensure player safety during sports practices.
A unique platform
The festival serves as a unique platform to spotlight the significant potential of people with disabilities in sports. It reflects Oman’s and the region’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote social awareness and full inclusion for this group within society.
In his opening remarks, Mohammed al Yahmadi, OFA Secretary-General, welcomed everyone to this special football event. He praised people with disabilities, calling them champions, and emphasised that football has the power to erase all differences among people.
"They are true champions—healthy and productive individuals. It is a joyful moment to see this group join us in every step of our beautiful football journey," Al Yahmadi said. He expressed his happiness at their participation in the event and his hope to strengthen connections through more initiatives that celebrate their involvement and creativity.
Orouba al Husseini, Deputy Secretary-General of the West Asia Football Federation for Development, expressed her gratitude to the Oman Football Association for its exceptional support and hosting of the event. She highlighted the festival as the start of a series of future activities planned as part of the collaboration between the two organisations.
Al Husseini noted that the festival complements the federation’s efforts in social responsibility, aiming to enhance the participation of diverse groups in football.
"We are committed to developing football across all categories in the region. This group, in particular, represents a key element of society, contributing significantly to its continuity and progress," she said. She concluded by wishing everyone an enjoyable time over the two-day festival, emphasising that such events reinforce both sporting and social values.
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