KABUL (Pajhwok): A grassroots football festival was held in the capital Kabul today (Wednesday) with the participation of 200 athletes, the General Directorate of Physical Education and Sports said.
In a statement, the directorate said the event was organised by the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) in coordination with the Asian Football Confederation.
It featured 200 players from 10 teams representing the central region and was held over a single day.
It said children and youths from junior and youth age categories took part in the festival, showcasing their skills and talents through organised activities and demonstrations.
The festival, held under the theme “Encouraging children and youth to play football,” received a warm welcome from participants, the statement added.
It noted the event aimed to identify and select talented players for youth national teams, develop grassroots sport and encourage and support children and youth to take up football.
At the opening ceremony, Mawlawi Abdul Nasir Hashimi, head of administration and finance at the directorate, highlighted the importance of sport in the healthy development of the younger generation.
He stressed the value of conducting sporting activities within Islamic principles and described Afghan athletes as a source of national pride.
He also underscored the role of sport in strengthening solidarity, discipline and physical and mental wellbeing.
hz/kk
