By Rafiq Vayani
KARACHI: Standard Chartered announced the launch of “Standard Chartered Karachi United Youth League” as part of its community service mandate to promote sports amongst children. This is the second time Standard Chartered has sponsored this league.
The objective of the “Standard Chartered Karachi United Youth League” is to provide a platform for Youth football teams from across the underprivileged areas of Karachi to come together, break barriers and inculcate the spirit of competition.
In its first edition, the Standard Chartered KU Youth League had over 600 beneficiaries including boys and girls. There were multiple case studies that were published and amplified through social media of how the competition enabled many examples of team work, volunteerism in the community, leadership and new friendships across communities and children that generally do not interact with each other.
This year’s league will see three boys’ competitions in the following age categories: Under 10 years, Under 12 years and Under 14 years. The format is that of a group system from which the top teams qualify directly for the semi-finals. The Standard Chartered KU Youth League also includes a Girls tournament to be played on a single league basis in a 7 aside format with the top two teams competing in the final.
This year’s competition will see a total of 800 boys and girls from across Karachi participate in matches. In order to increase the standard of the league, official referees and match commissioners have been appointed for every match.
A total of 128 matches will be played in ten different locations including Old Golimar, Clifton, Shireen Jinnah, Keamari, Malir, Baldia, Lyari, Korangi, Manghopir and Mauripur promises to attract football fans from all over Karachi.
Commenting on the sponsorship, Mr. Shazad Dada, Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Pakistan said, “Standard Chartered is proud to partner for the second year with Karachi United to bring to you the “SC KU Youth League”. In line with our brand promise “Here for Good”, it is a unique event spread over three months which aims to bring underserved communities together. The value of sport to communities extends beyond sport for sport’s sake. It can play a role in bringing communities together, having a social and cultural impact, developing social capital and reducing crime and anti-social behavior. We hope that through Football we can bring a positive social benefit that is a unifying force across our communities in Karachi. Last year more than 600 children went through the SC KU league experience which was not only restricted to Football, but also included coaching in life skills, team work and other areas. Standard Chartered has a long association with football and we are proud to be leading such a transformational initiative with Karachi United in the country”
Imran Ali, CEO, Karachi United said: “We welcome and thank Standard Chartered’s continuous partnership to promote sport and much needed competition for our Youth. This is what will help develop confidence in our children and leadership capabilities whilst demonstrating a healthy lifestyle. The competition is testament to Standard Chartered’s support in this avenue and we look forward to further promotion of the same. Karachi United coaches are extremely excited about the event and looking forward to showcasing their skills”.
