Youngsters across Doha will once again have the opportunity to learn crucial footballing skills by participating in Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development’s fourth ‘Passport to Passion’ challenge at Al Wakra Park on Friday, 17 May and Saturday, 18 May. In keeping with the programme’s objective to reach out to young people, the weekend sessions will unite the local community and football enthusiasts in a range of fun-filled activities and coaching sessions. Professional trainers will offer players aged between 5 and 15 many practical tips on how to retain control of the ball, move through obstacles swiftly, pass with accuracy, maintain coordination, as well as use their head to score goals. The event, which is being held from 3pm to 6pm, is part of a five-session series. The final ‘Passport to Passion’ challenge will take place at the Awsaj Academy pitch in Qatar Foundation on 24 and 25 May. Young participants will be able to demonstrate all the essential skills and training, which they have acquired over the past few weeks, including agility, strength, and goalkeeping. Last week, a large number of enthusiastic players participated in the challenge at Katara Beach. They tested their coordination by moving swiftly through the first of a sequence of challenges, before learning to pass with accuracy and retain possession of the ball. Dozens of players embraced the challenge and demonstrated their passion for the sport. The family-friendly atmosphere was ideal for active children who were eager to play with one another and to show off their technical abilities. Alia Saeed, whose son competed in the ‘Passport to Passion’ challenge said, “The event at Katara was fantastic. My son had a wonderful time participating in the activities, especially since he is a huge fan of FC Barcelona and he was really excited to be here. We are definitely going to let our friends know about the next one, so that they can join us with their kids.” The series has been designed to help instil fundamental values of teamwork, perseverance, dedication and a positive ‘can-do’ attitude in youth. Upon completion of each activity, the budding footballers all receive ‘success stamps’ in their special, custom-made ‘Passport to Passion’ passports in recognition of their hard work, persistence, and sportsmanship. The ‘Passport to Passion’ challenge is part of an ongoing series of activities within the ‘Passion Drives Us All’ initiative that is designed around Qatar Foundation’s partnership with FC Barcelona. Over the last few weeks, hundreds of players have participated in the weekend challenge and shared this special experience with family and friends. All sports and football enthusiasts between 5 and 15 years of age are encouraged to attend the skills exercises and tests which will be taking place at Al Wakra Park this weekend and Awsaj Academy pitch 4 in Qatar Foundation on 24 and 25 May. Get your own ‘Passport to Passion’ at: Al Wakra Park – 17 to 18 May 2013 Awsaj Academy pitch 4, Qatar Foundation – 24 to 25 May 2013 To find out more about the ‘Passport to Passion’ challenge and the Qatar Foundation – FC Barcelona partnership, visit http://www.qf-fcb.com. The Qatar Foundation–FC Barcelona partnership is dedicated to encouraging people all over the world to follow their passions through the pursuit of excellence in sports and education. By extending many of the positive values from sport to youth of all ages, Qatar Foundation and FC Barcelona are eager to foster a spirit of teamwork and healthy, active lifestyles.

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