DUBAI With an intent to further strengthen the opportunities for young footballers in the UAE, the Dubai Sports City is launching the DSC Junior League from next month.
The 12-week league will be held at the sprawling Football Academy at the Dubai Sports City which will be on from September 20 to December 13 for different age-groups that include under-6, U-8, U-10, U-12, U-14 and U-16.
“For youth development, it’s crucial for the kids to be playing competitive football at a young age. During the week you can work on the different training methods/practices but every footballer needs to test himself in a competitive environment. This is what DSC will be offering in this Junior League in a professionally-run structured tournament,” said Adam Griffiths, programmes, tournaments & development executive at Dubai Sports City – Football Academy.
“The season will run across 12 weeks with different age-groups playing alternative weeks,” he added.
Initial registrations for the league have already begun and are open to all the clubs in the UAE.
“The initial response has been brilliant. It’s promising to be the biggest and best junior league in the UAE. We are targeting 50 plus teams across all the age-groups.
“Initially the league is targeting UAE clubs and depending on the success on a national level, we will consider expanding it across the Gulf,” Griffith said.
The league will be closely monitored by the top coaches after which the top performers will be guided to train at a serious level depending on the level and age-group.
“The team here at the Spanish Soccer Schools will be overseeing the fixtures on a weekly basis and offering their professional insight and for the most talented individuals we can offer individual training and in some cases full scholarships to join the Academy here at Dubai Sports City,” he added.