Muscat: Oman is on the cusp of etching its name in the annals of sports history with the inauguration of the Oman Football Academy League (OFAL), heralding the most comprehensive football academy competition ever staged within the Sultanate.
Set to commence on November 2, this pioneering tournament is poised to unite 74 academies and 190 teams from every nook and cranny of Oman, vying for the prestigious accolades.
Organized by the esteemed Muscat Media Group (MMG) in collaboration with the Oman Football Association (OFA), OFAL is dedicated to establishing a new benchmark for youth football, fostering the cultivation of young talent, and providing a platform for their advancement on both regional and international arenas.
The tournament is open to teams across various age categories, including under-16, under-14, under-12, and under-10, thereby showcasing the finest young football talent from Oman's diverse governorates.
The initial qualifiers will be conducted in various governorates, culminating in the grand finale in Muscat in April 2025. In addition to team awards, individual accolades such as best player, best goalkeeper, and top scorer will be on offer, with the winners being granted the opportunity to compete in regional and international championships.
Fadi Kattar, the Chairman of the OFAL Organising Committee, highlighted the broader vision underpinning the championship. He stated, “This championship transcends the realm of a simple sports competition. It is a strategic endeavor to advance football within the Sultanate by exposing young players to elite-level competition and fostering an environment that nurtures their skills.”
Kattar further underscored the significance of establishing a professional platform that not only hones the technical prowess of young players but also ignites a passion for the game. “Our commitment lies in creating a superior environment that will act as a training ground for our young talent, preparing them for future competitions and elevating the standard of Omani football,” he added.
Chuck Martini, a former player of the English Premier League and the Head of Muscat Football Academy, echoed this sentiment, expressing enthusiasm for the opportunities OFAL will present for young athletes. He stated, “This championship marks a pivotal moment for youth football in Oman. We have ensured meticulous preparations to create an environment where participants can both exhibit and refine their skills.”
Martini highlighted the unique educational aspect OFAL offers, noting, “It’s not merely about competing; it’s about the development of each player’s potential. By participating in this league, players gain invaluable experience that will serve them in both national and international competitions.”
He further emphasized the distinctive learning experience OFAL provides, adding, “It’s about more than just the game; it’s about nurturing each player. By engaging in this league, players are exposed to a wealth of experience that will benefit them on both national and international stages.”
Hosted at Cheltenham School’s state-of-the-art stadium, OFAL promises an immersive experience for spectators, with children’s sports competitions and entertainment enriching the event. This landmark tournament underscores Oman’s dedication to nurturing young sports talent and supporting their development on both national and global platforms.
With MMG, Oman’s premier media conglomerate, as a partner, OFAL will enjoy extensive coverage across television, print, and digital mediums, ensuring widespread engagement and visibility for young football talents throughout the Sultanate.
