Futsal Program Draws ‘Gapo Kids to Sports
While most kids spent summer playing video games or watching TV at home, some Olongapo youngsters opted to kick-out their boredom in a fun and healthy way by learning a unique sport called Futsal.
More than 120 kids and 30 coaches took part in the Batang Gapo Futsal program of Redondo Peninsula Energy, Inc. (RP Energy) and the Amihan Football Club to learn the fundamentals of playing and coaching the indoor football sport.
The program which highlighted exciting championship games and an awarding ceremony at the Subic Gym of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Freeport, successfully introduced Futsal to 14 barangays in Olongapo City, Zambales.
Winners from the different age divisions included Barangay Mabayuan (12 and up), Barangay Mabayuan (10 and up) and Juventus School for the Gifted (8 and up). Cup finalists included Barangay East Bajac-Bajac (12 and up), Barangay East Bajac-Bajac (10 and up), and Barangay Mabayuan (8 and up).
“We are delighted with the outcome of our sports program. We not only introduced Futsal to the barangays, we also instilled among the youngsters the values of teamwork and respect, and developing skill and passion for the sport,” said Grant Smith, RP Energy project manager.
All the players received Batang Gapo Futsal medals while the winning teams received championship trophies. 30 coaches were also given certificates of completion for undergoing training on Futsal coaching and facilitation.
RP Energy CSR officer Vic Chan hopes the program will continue to gain the support of Olongapo residents so it could expand to the municipality of Subic.
Amihan FC president John Bayarong said they will explore the creation of a football event for teens and adults that will represent the RP Energy Futboleros to the annual Futbol Cup in Region III.
With the Batang Gapo Futsal program, RP Energy hopes more kids in Zambales will be interested to learn and play Futsal, not just to keep healthy but also to hone their football skills and be more competitive in the unique sport.
