FOOTBALL – THE NBB Charity Super Cup U21 was held yesterday evening with two national heavyweights, Muharraq Club and Al Najma Club, battling it out in a one-off football event.
Sponsored by the National Bank of Bahrain (NBB), the initiative was held in collaboration with the Smile Society, an organisation dedicated to supporting and honouring young children currently battling cancer.
The integration of the Smile Society children was handled with touching consideration. Invited as VIP guests, the kids walked out alongside the players of Muharraq and Najma before the match.
NBB organised a beautiful presentation where each child received a personalised football jersey, boldly emblazoned with the word ‘Champion’ across the back. It was a recognition that true championship isn’t found just in a final score, but in enduring immense adversity.
The game itself was officially underway after one of these young heroes performed the symbolic first kick.
When the whistle blew, signalling the end of the hard-fought match, NBB representatives took to the field to present the trophy and medals to both teams.
But the most uplifting part of the ceremony followed. The bank’s team greeted the young guests and players, handing out special gifts and ensuring the children were front and centre for all the group photos.
The crowning moment was reserved for the children who had successfully completed their treatment. These young survivors were given the chance to ring the bell on the pitch, a universally recognised celebration of recovery.
NBB’s involvement confirms the bank’s commitment to genuine Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). By injecting this powerful community element into their sponsorship, NBB moved beyond simply funding youth sport, though its dedication to grassroots sports and youth engagement is clear, and actively fulfilled a broader strategy of community investment and inclusive social development.
It wasn’t about the scoreboard; it was about the strength found off the field, proving that sometimes, the most important victory is the one won against the greatest odds.
Muharraq lifted the NBB Charity Super Cup U21 after beating Najma in a penalty shootout. The two sides had ended the game tied at 1-1, setting the stage for the decisive spot kicks.
jayne@gdnmedia.bh
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