DAMMAM — Taking a cue from the growing football training centers by expatriates in Jeddah, a group of soccer-loving Indians officially opened the Dammam Soccer Academy (DSA) at the Al-Gosaibi ground in Al-Khobar recently. The activities of DSA, formed in January under the guidance of Abdul Rafeeque Kannur, mentor and founding chairman of Jeddah Sports Club (JSC), was inaugurated by chief guest Hamed Mahmood Al-Gosaibi at a colorful ceremony here last week.
The function began with a march-past by the opening batch of 25 boys belonging to 10-15 age group. After guests took the salute, Nidal Noushad recited verses from the Holy Qur'an.
Chairman Noushad welcomed the gathering and Riyas Kommoth spoke of DSA mission and vision. Al-Gosaibi lauded DSA efforts in grooming young talent. The ceremony was also graced by Dr. Abdul Salam and Rasheed, IISD management committee members; Haris from Malayalam News, Rafeeque T., DIFF president; and former DIFF presidents Cherical Abdul Razack and C. Razack Thekkapram.
A renowned former professional soccer player from the southern Indian state of Kerala, Abdul Rafeeque, who is the architect behind JSC and DSA, spoke of his plans to start a third academy in Riyadh.
Rafeeque and DSA chairman thanked Al-Gosaibi Group for its exceptional support that paved the way for DSA to hold its camp at the Al-Gosaibi astro-turf ground which will be DSA's home ground for its season September to June. The training will be held every Friday morning from 6 to 9.
The DSA also thanked co-sponsors BRG, Freight & Logistics (FL Cargo), ITS Ben & Thomas and Santhosh who sponsored kit bags for the trainees.
DSA chairman appreciated his administration and coaching staff Aslam, Mansoor, Fawas, Zuhail, Ramiz, Shazim, Rasil, Yasheen, Ameer, Riyas, Saleem and parents of trainees.
Earlier, Al-Gosaibi and Rafeeque unveiled DSA jersey and Raed Juma from Al-Gosaibi Group and Santhosh presented kit bags to trainees. Chief coach Mansoor honored trainee Bilal Imthiyaz with captain's arm band. Ameer delivered vote of thanks and Saleem anchored the program.
After a photo session, two exhibition matches were played — between DSA trainees that ended in a penalty shootout and Parents-DSA managing committee members team Socceroos vs. Bravos that ended 4-0 in favor of the latter. — SG
