Home Sports A New Chapter of Community Engagement for the 971 Football Academy

A New Chapter of Community Engagement for the 971 Football Academy

by Belinda Breeze

Rashed Saif Belhasa’s Symbolic Gesture, New Partnerships, and Youth Empowerment, Introducing the joy of football to the youngest members of our community

Rashed Saif Belhasa, also known as “Money Kicks,” recently embarked on an inspiring trip to India, where his passion for football, community outreach, and building meaningful connections took centre stage. During his visit, Rashed had the honour of meeting Bollywood superstar Salman Khan. In a moment of significance, he presented Salman with the very first 971 Football Academy jersey. This jersey, representing one of the UAE’s leading youth football academies, symbolises the cultural and athletic collaboration between the UAE and India. Salman Khan, renowned for his generosity and love for sports, warmly received the gift, marking a special moment in the growing relationship between the two nations.

Rashed Saif Belhasa, Visiting GEMS Al Barsha National School

A Warm Welcome at GEMS Al Barsha National School
After his trip to India, Rashed shifted his focus back to Dubai, where he visited GEMS Al Barsha National School to officially welcome GEMS Education as a key partner of the 971 Football Academy. The event was filled with warmth as Rashed greeted the students with enthusiasm and encouragement. This partnership between 971 Football Academy and GEMS Education represents a significant milestone, with GEMS’ vast network of schools offering a unique platform to empower young footballers across Dubai.

GEMS Al Barsha National School were thrilled by Rashed’s visit

The students at GEMS Al Barsha National School were thrilled by Rashed’s visit, participating in friendly football activities and expressing their excitement about the new opportunities this partnership will provide. The collaboration between 971 Football Academy and GEMS Education will undoubtedly foster the development of football talent while encouraging students to pursue their athletic dreams alongside their academic ambitions.

Engaging the Little Ones

971 Football Academy at My Nursery
The excitement continued as 971 Football Academy paid a special visit to My Nursery in Dubai. This session aimed to introduce the youngest members of the community to the joy of football. The academy’s coaches led the children through fun, interactive football drills, creating an unforgettable experience for the little ones.
In recognition of the academy’s efforts to promote early childhood development and physical education, My Nursery awarded 971 Football Academy a certificate of appreciation. This gesture highlighted the important role of sports in fostering confidence, teamwork, and physical fitness in young children.

A New Chapter of Community Engagement
Rashed Saif Belhasa’s recent activities reflect 971 Football Academy’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of athletes and forming meaningful partnerships. His visit to India, the presentation of the first 971 jersey to Salman Khan, the academy’s partnership with GEMS Education, and the heartwarming session with the children at My Nursery all demonstrate the academy’s broader vision of inclusivity, youth development, and community engagement.

Rashed Saif Belhasa’s presentation of the first 971 jersey to Salman Khan

As 971 Football Academy continues to grow its reach and impact, these key events highlight the academy’s dedication to connecting with communities both locally and internationally. By fostering relationships that bridge cultures and empower the youth, Rashed and 971 Football Academy are laying the foundation for a future where football is not just a sport, but a platform for education, collaboration, and global unity.