Youth League finalists unite to give back to local community
Thursday, April 27, 2023
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Ahead of Monday’s final, young players from Hajduk Split and AZ Alkmaar participated in the UEFA Foundation for Children's inspiring social programme initiative by training with local children with disabilities.
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Over the weekend leading up to the UEFA Youth League final between Croatia's Hajduk Split and the Netherlands' AZ Alkmaar, UEFA and the UEFA Foundation for Children extended a special invitation to local associations Seven Association and SRD Young Stars to join the finalists for an exclusive training session.
Twenty-two young players with learning disabilities had the chance to train alongside emerging talents and future top players on UEFA’s home pitch in Nyon, Switzerland. After warming up together with different exercises and games where they practised their passing, shooting and technical skills, they then played a series of fun and intense games. It was a heart-warming sight as the teams put aside their rivalry and came together to share a moment of fun and camaraderie on the field.
The Youth League donates a portion of its revenue to the UEFA Foundation for Children to help fund social projects and associations, including the Seven Association. This initiative serves as a meaningful way to give back to the local community and offer support to young players with disabilities. The experience was truly special, and everyone involved thoroughly enjoyed it.
Naom Jafer, SRD Young Stars captain
"It was a very special day for our team. We were really impressed to see the level of play of the players from both teams. We enjoyed the hospitality and thank the UEFA foundation for inviting us. We hope to come back next year."
UEFA Foundation at the Youth League
The UEFA Foundation for Children also made an inspiring show of solidarity by setting up a vibrant stand at the fan zone outside the Stade de Genève. The foundation brought its mission to life through an array of engaging games and activities designed to showcase its tireless efforts to support children's development worldwide.
The foundation also invited children from the Rêves (Dreams) association to attend the exhilarating Youth League semi-finals and play fun games at its stand in the fan zone to win awesome prizes and even meet the beloved Youth League mascot, Yuli!