Shafallah Center Welcomes Asian Cup Representatives, Accompanied by the Tournament’s Mascots and Veteran Saudi Football Team Players
The Qatar 2023 Asian Cup AFC Local Organizing Committee visited Shafallah Center for Persons with Disabilities to promote the 2023 Asian Cup, which the State of Qatar is hosting. The students had so much fun with the 18th edition’s mascots. The mascots are a family of five jerboa animals, which were unveiled for the first time during the 2011 Asian Cup. The students took commemorative photographs with the mascots and the trophy.
It is worth noting that this is the third time Qatar is hosting the Asian Cup after successfully hosting the event in 1988 and 2011. There is going to be 51 matches hosted in modern stadiums.
On a different note, the Shafallah Center also had the pleasure of welcoming a delegation from the Saudi Football Association, which consisted of veteran Saudi players, as part of the Social Responsibility program. Mr. Mohammed Saleh Al-Saadi, the director of the Support Service department in Shafallah Center for Persons with Disabilities, warmly greeted the visitors. The program included a sports meeting between the Shafallah students and the veteran Saudi football team players. The meeting was divided into four football activities, and the students even got to practice penalty kicks with the players.
On another note, Mr. Al-Saadi mentioned that they are really happy for Qatar being chosen to host the Asian Cup this year. He thanked the local organizing committee for their commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities and making it easier for them to access the stadiums. Mr. Al-Saadi also said that Qatar having the honor of hosting this continental sports event is a testament to the success of Qatar hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which was said to have exceeded expectations. It highlights Qatar’s ability to host international events that prioritize inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.
He also expressed his gratitude to the Asian Cup organizing committee for generously providing tickets to the Shafallah students. Additionally, the committee arranged specialized rooms that cater to individuals with autism and other sensory issues, allowing them to enjoy the matches comfortably.