A NEW initiative targeting youth categories called Khalid bin Hamad Gold Generation League was unveiled yesterday following directives from Supreme Council for Youth and Sport (SCYS) first deputy chairman, General Sports Authority (GSA) chairman and Bahrain Olympic Committee president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
The initiative was revealed during a Press conference held by the GSA at the Bahrain National Stadium’s Conferences Hall, in the presence of the GSA chief wxecutive Dr Abdulrahman Askar, heads of sports federations and clubs’ representatives.
Dr Askar thanked His Majesty the King’s representative for humanitarian work and youth affairs Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa for his constant support for the sports sector, noting that the initiative is part of the SCYS’ strategies.
He also paid tribute to Shaikh Khalid for his interest and constant support for the youth sector, citing his directives to launch this initiative which will contribute to honing youngsters’ skills and building a solid base of athletes who are capable of competing at the highest levels.
The GSA chief underlined the important role of clubs and federations in ensuring the success of this initiative, noting that everyone’s co-operation will contribute to achieving Shaikh Khalid’s vision to improve the level of youth categories.
Dr Askar said that the youngest category will participate in the first edition of the Khalid bin Hamad Gold Generation League, overseen by the GSA and organised by the seven sports federations that include football, basketball, handball, volleyball, table tennis, athletics and cycling.
He added that the competitions of the league will not be held during school hours or exams.
He indicated that on Shaikh Khalid’s directives, cash prizes have been allocated to the first three places in the league competitions and to the first and second places in the cup competitions, adding that the best player in each match or competition will be honoured.
He also revealed that under the initiative, an all-star match or game will be held, with the participation of the best-performing players and the best two coaches, noting that the players will be selected by the relevant technical committees.
Dr Askar highlighted the importance of the role of various media outlets in ensuring the success of the Khalid bin Hamad Gold Generation League, stressing that extensive media coverage is essential for achieving the goals of the initiative.