DAMMAM: Dammam Soccer Academy (DSA), formed in January this year under the guidance of Abdul Rafeeque Kannur, founder chairman of Jeddah Sports Club, held its official inauguration ceremony at Al Gosabi Ground in Alkhobar recently with fanfare.

The program began with a marchpast, 25 boys aged 10 to 15, DSA's first batch trainees, in their bright orange color jersey sponsored by JSC, marching forward to the beat of karaoke band. They stopped to face the dais in a synchronized fashion that was a delight to watch with the youngest two trainees Sahil and Vishwanath in the center holding DSA flag.

Nidal Noushad recited verses from the holy Quran followed by DSA introduction and welcome speech by chairman Noushad. Riyas Kommoth spoke of DSA mission and vision in line with JSC norms. Chief guest Hamad Mohammad Al Gosaibi lauded DSA efforts in grooming young talents.

The occasion was also graced by guests of honor Abdul Salam and Rasheed, IISD Management Committee members, Haris, Malayalam News EP Sports Editor, Rafeeque T. President DIFF, Cherical Abdul Razack and C.Razack Thekkapram both former DIFF Presidents. DSA Founder Abdul Rafeeque then spoke of his plans to start a third academy in Riyadh.

Chairman Noushad thanked Al Gosaibi Group for their exceptional support that paved the way for DSA to hold its camp at Al Gosaibi astro-turf ground which will be DSA's home ground for its season September to June with training held Friday mornings from 6 to 9 a.m. They both thanked co-sponsors BRG, Freight & Logistics (FL Cargo), Ramzi Trading Boby & Boban and Trainee parent Santhosh who sponsored kit bags.


Chairman Noushad in his speech thanked his team including administration and coaching staff Aslam, Mansoor, Fawas, Zuhail, Ramiz, Shazim, Rasil, Thanveer, Yasheen, Ameer, Riyas, Saleem and all DSA parents for their enthusiasm and support from day one.


Earlier the chief guest Hamad M. AlGosaibi and Abdul Rafeeque unveiled DSA jersey and Raed Juma from Al Gosaibi Group along-with parent Santhosh presented a kit bag to a trainee. Chief Coach Mansoor honored trainee Bilal Imthiyaz with the Captain's arm band.


Ameer delivered vote of thanks and Saleem anchored the program. After the photo sessions, two exciting matches took place. The match between two DSA teams ended in a penalty shootout while the other match between the teams of parents and DSA managing committee members Socceroos vs Bravos ended 4-0 in favor of Bravos.