AIPS ASIA News:

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC)’s undeterred efforts to expand the reach of the beautiful game across the Continent were once again underlined as 42 Member Associations (MAs) joined in celebrating the 12th AFC Grassroots Football Day.

The 2025 edition of the event saw more than 31,000 participants commemorate the occasion, bringing to life the AFC’s philosophy of offering every individual, regardless of age, physical ability, or social circumstances, the opportunity to experience the power of football.

Traditionally celebrated on May 15, this year’s event marked a shift, taking place on May 23 in alignment with FIFA’s World Football Week, enabling the AFC to further contribute to the United Nations’ “Football for the Goals” initiative and the advancement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

In Singapore, the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) partnered with the Safe Sport Commission Singapore to host United Through Football – A Day of Play & Safe Sport, aimed at creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive football ecosystem.

The event not only raised awareness among parents but also featured football clinics for children, particularly from the FAS Girl Cubs programme and other non-profit organisations, promoting greater access to sport for underprivileged youth.

Meanwhile, in the Kyrgyz Republic, the day was celebrated in Bishkek and six surrounding regions, where hundreds of children engaged in interactive activities ranging from taking part in 3v3 games to learning drills in football stations. 

Furthermore, across the Continent, several other MAs celebrated with football festivals featuring workshops, small-sided games, and mini tournaments, among other enjoyable activities.

In recognising the efforts of the MAs, AFC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa said: “Over the years, this celebration has not only championed the development of football at its most fundamental level but also embraced values that shape responsible citizens of tomorrow.

“As we all know, at the heart of the AFC’s Vision and Mission lies the ambition to ensure football remains the number one sport in Asia,  and the first step towards that goal begins at the grassroots level.

“The AFC Grassroots Football Day 2025 will place greater emphasis on harnessing the power of football to promote environmentally conscious practices, advocate gender equality, encourage good health and well-being, and raise awareness of child safeguarding. 

“With our collective efforts, I am confident that we will continue to build a brighter future for the next generation — a belief already reflected in our past achievements. And while I am filled with pride by the progress we have made, I am even more excited for what lies ahead.”

Since the 2024 edition, three MAs—the Chinese Football Association, the United Arab Emirates Football Association, and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation—have received gold-level endorsement under the acclaimed AFC Grassroots Football Charter, which now includes 43 members.

Additionally, the latest edition of the AFC Grassroots Review was published in April, showcasing the Confederation’s various initiatives, such as the AFC President’s Recognition Awards for Grassroots Football and the AFC Special Grassroots Awards.

Courtesy AFC