The Football Association of Hong Kong, China (HKFA) hosted the FIFA Football for School (F4S) Opening Ceremony and Hong Chi Association Football Match Day on December 8. This programme aims to make football more accessible to children worldwide through collaboration with the UNESCO. The programme integrates football activities into the education system, providing students with valuable life skills, enhancing training for coaches and educators, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.

The opening ceremony took place at the Jockey Club HKFA Football Training Centre, with Mr. Eric FOK, Chairman of HKFA, Mrs. Fatimata SOW, Director of FIFA Football for Schools, and Mr. Wai CHEUNG, Vice chairman of Hong Chi Association as officiating guests. The guests participated in a simple kick-off ceremony to signify the start of F4S. The ceremony was also attended by Chief Curriculum Development Officer (Physical Education), Education Bureau - Ms. Hing Yee WONG, Annie and about 250 students from Hong Chi Morning hill School, Tsui Lam l, NTWJWAL Leung Sing Tak Primary School, W F Joseph Lee Primary School, and Aldrich Bay Government Primary School.

HKFA Chairman Mr. Eric FOK delivered the welcome remarks. He said “We are delighted be part of F4S which would make football more accessible to both boys and girls in Hong Kong by incorporating football activities into the education system. We are grateful for FIFA’s support to make this all possible.”

Director of FIFA Football for Schools Mrs. Fatimata SOW said “F4S brings the positive values of football into the education and development process for our children. It keeps a positive and enthusiastic attitude.”

Afterwards, under the supervision of Hong Chi Association teachers and HKFA coaches, the students were divided into small groups for training, using the F4S app curriculum. The students actively participated in the training, demonstrating excellent football skills and teamwork.

In addition, the Hong Chi Association Football Fun Day staged many exciting groups matches that allowed students to showcase and exchange their football talents. Over 500 students who have undergone the training also applied the skills learned for an invitation match with guests. All parties enjoyed the fun and competitiveness of football.