Awareness Campaign Through Soccer Tournament

CASL TOURNAMENT

VENUE: KINYAGO slums in Nairobi

DATE: 1ST December 2007

THEME: Take Care of the children and make them realize their dreams

AWARENESS CAMPAIGN THROUGH SOCCER TOURNAMENT

As the world marked the International AIDS day with various events CASL was not an exception, it took advantage of the popularity of the game by holding a soccer tournament through its program (GAMEON! Youth Sports) which addresses sports need in children. A total of 10 teams comprising of under 12 and 14 converged at the Kinyago sports ground.

The Kinyago sports ground was a buzz of activities full ofparticipants, soccer funs and parents of the participant who had come to give moral support to their children. The theme encouraged the society to help children identify and nurture their sports talents. With the presence of their parents, participants’ moral was high as it boosted their self-esteem and enthusiasm in the tournament.

KICK OFF

After a brief introduction of the participating teams the tournament commenced at11am until 5pm.First to get the ball rolling were under 12 teams, followed by under 14 teams.

Teams’ coaches were very busy passing out coaching skills and messages to their respective teams during the matches and during half times.

END MATCH

At the end of all matches, all teams assembled together for HIV/AIDS information. CASL used this forum to address the issue of HIV /AIDS among children and the youth. This was carried out using pamphlets that had information on HIV and STI, Drugs and HIV and preventive measures. Despiteof efforts from the government, Non governmental organization to curb the spread of HIV it continue to be a threat especially to the youth living in poor conditions. It’s always important to constantly remind the youth on the dangers of the disease and preventive measures.

DOUBLE GAIN

At the end of the tournament all the participating teams were fully equipped both with HIV/AIDS knowledge, soccer skills alongside prizes for the winners and the runners up. Participating parents congratulated CASL for driving home the most needed information despite creating a fun environment for the players.

AKNOWLEDGMENT

I would like to appreciate the CASL participants and parents for their enormous contribution during this event. Gratitude to Kinyago community members for their support. Thanks to Liver Pool Kenya for provision of HIV materials.

Special thanks and heartfelt gratitudeto Global Giving and our donors. We believe with more resources we can expand our activities and reach more young people.