BSmag #06 (Beach Soccer Magazine)

BSmag

Ghana’s Unity Cup Bounces back !

Bali Beach Soccer 2019 stakes are high

Isle of Wight England’s beach soccer hub

Governor with Beach Soccer at heart

Beach Soccer Cup

...... we bring the game to you

Ghana’s Unity Cup

Aaron Clarke

Terence Bowes

Meet our amazing

Tighe O’Sullivan

Member of the Board of Directors at US FootGolf Association (Co-Founder), Created Viaports International LLC in November 2008 to manage multiple properties under one umbrella. Founder and senior director at Pro AM Beach Soccer, a premier Beach Soccer Events in the U.S., and the first in the Western United States that features both youth and adults competitions together. Tighe is also the President of Club Marin, a Soccer club dedicated to creating ‘soccer culture’ within its community.

Marieme Ndiaye

Marieme a young Dakar based sports marketing entrepreneur currently. She spends her time profiling and providing content for several online news media, including thoughts on beach soccer trends. She is also a radio presenter with Radio FM Senegal and Radio Convergence FM. Among many strings to her bow, she is a volunteer media officer for the Senegal National Beach Soccer Team, so it’s no surprise she’s particularly passionate about the sport.

Luke Kerr

General Manager for Elite Soccer UK and Isle of Wight Beach Soccer. A former Head Coach at England Beach Soccer and FIFA Beach Soccer Instructor.

Jenny

Correa

A pro Beach Soccer player and entrepreneur. She is the founder of United Beach Soccer League and a fashion enthusiasts.

Samuel Ahmadu

Sam is the Founder and managing editor of SavidNews. com, and Senior Correspondent with Goal.com is a sports journalist with a passion. He is a member of advisory panel for BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year award and a strong women football advocate. He has covered several international sporting events in South Africa, Canada, Cameroun, Ghana and others.

The Wigan Athletic fan, with several award nominations including the Nigeria Sports Awards looks forward to winning the CNN Journalist award someday.

Here, another issue of BSmag, and this edition is a special feature on the annual Kebbi Beach Soccer Sallah Tournament held in Kebbi State North-West Nigeria, spiced up with a chat with His Excellency the Executive Governor of Kebbi State. Check it out, you’ll agree with me that he has got Beach Soccer at heart.

We also threw in some juicy slice from 2018 Bali Beach Soccer, the Ghanaian Unity Cup and England’s Isle of Wight Beach Soccer Association.

As we invite you to again enjoy this issue, we look forward to your feedback via any of our channels.

T & S Club

24 Hayter Road, London, SW2, United Kingdom

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Taye Olajide

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Patricia TO

Tighe O’Sullivan

Marieme Ndiaye

Luke Kerr

Samuel Ahmadu

Jenny Corea

PHOTO CREDITS

FIFA Media

Pixel Lynch

KEDE AIHE

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GLOBAL BRIEFS

Beach Soccer set to shine at the World Beach Games 2019 in San Diego (USA), between 10th and 15th October 2019.

China

Azerbaijan dominate in Haikou!

The men from the Land of Fire stayed perfect in the closing day to seal silverware at the CFA Belt and Road International Cup.

Paraguay

UAA are the new Paraguayan champions. The Asunción based side takes Puerta del Lago’s crown following a win over Aregüeña in the final.

Elsalvador

El Salvador reedit Copa Centroamericana glory. The Cuscatleco bend CONCACAF kings Panama in the decider of the competition.

Iran Loko edge hosts Moghavemat Golsapoosh in a 2-1 victory to claim the Eurasia Beach Soccer Cup

Portugal

Portugal were twice victorious in a double friendly against Poland in Buarcos, Figueira da Foz.

Malaysia

The AFC held a Beach Soccer Coaching Course with FIFA Instructors Gilberto Costa and Angelo Schirinzi direct the seminar in Kuala Lumpur.

Kuwait

Wezaret el Kahraba are Kuwait National Champions. Arab Club, runners up in the league, clinched the Super Cup after bending Kuwait Club.

Rrussia

Host Kristall reign on home soil winning the Inter Cup 2018 after beating Russia U23 in the final, as Krylia Sovetov seal bronze in Sint Petersburg

Bahamas

Mexico, champions of the Bahamas Cup in a dramatic 5-4 win on extra time give the Azteca the crown in Nassau.

Portugal

Braga

retain Euro Winners title. A devastating penalty shootout for Kristall sees Braga claim back to back Euro Winners Cup crowns.

S pain

Swiss domination in Giverola friendlies .

France

Double win by France over Belgium. The two sides clashed in two friendly games over the weekend at Le Touquet.

Us

Beach Maryzilian and Shoreline BSC triumph in men’s and women’s NASSC - US Open finals. .

May 18-20 saw the third edition of the Pro-Am Beach Soccer Bali Beach Soccer Competition. The previous years the event took place on the east coast of Sanur as part of the Bali Beach Games benefiting and organized by the Bali Sports Foundation.

BALI BADUNG

The change in venue came with the introduction and sponsoring of the event by the Badung Regency and Badung Football & Beach Soccer Associations. They brought the tournament to the heart of Kuta. This bustling tourist area known as Australia’s Cancun was a lively change, and the buzz immediately brought a different energy from our past events in Bali.

The pitch fit along a traditional wall with groves of palm trees behind each goal. The trees catered to a majority of fans shielding themselves from the heat blazing throughout the days of competition. Standing at a half field you

BEACH SOCCER 2018 COMPETITION

by Tighe O’Sullivan

could look east out in the distance to the airport and beyond mountains while your neck turning to the west your eyes pear towards the high-class Seminyak area and the rest of the coast towards the famous temple on the ocean, Tanah Lot.

Over the past two years, we had explored all the edges of the southern shores of the Balinese coast seeking another site to have the beach soccer event. We found very few choices on the island, but one was in Badung. Our first meeting with Pak Graha Wicaksana and the Badung F.A., we were delighted to not only find people open to it but excited to move on it. Pak Nyoman Sarjana, who was not in attendance at the meeting, then called us for a meeting the following day. Pak Nyoman, head of the beach soccer association, expressed how excited he was to get moving on the 2018 event.

As the whistle blew late Friday afternoon the first match started

and the 2018 games began. 10 teams, 24 matches, 170 goals, 3 matches to overtime, including both the consolation and final, yet none resulted in shots from the mark. The point lost in the other overtime winner kept Segara FC from the tiebreaker seen in their division eliminating their chance at the semi-finals.

We had not expected world-class quality play due to the timeline once the budget was finally approved. Whether teams could not organize their finances in only a 3-4 month lead time, or the schedule falling into the beginning of Ramadan, teams from abroad were unable to attend. Although the interest was very high and wide across five continents with teams having a try at attending this year’s event in paradise.

The tournament caught most off guard at how well it went. The opening games showed a lot of adjusting but quality glimpses and exciting goals were present and giving insight into what was

to come. Many players would really show their talent as the event would continue.

The final game on opening day had the sun dropping with bright sunset starting to appear over the ocean lined with waves and surfers catching it’s small shoulders as others waded in the shores whitewater. People started coming out from the protection of the palms, as the heat began to fade, and Ganas FC, from Legian area (aka home team), took the pitch for the first time. Just looking at them there was clearly a difference...

Thefirst goal came early from well inside their own half and the laser was buried without bounce into the lower side netting. Luckily at the time, my vantage point was angled from behind the ball with a straight look at that corner. It was a sublime strike of worldclass quality. At that moment, perception adjusted as we evaluated all games more wide-eyed.

GanasFC immediately separated themselves from the pack of the first eight teams seen. We quickly discovered several of the players were from the national team which has had their looks at international competition. The opening strike by METRAJAYA which tried desperately to break the lower net was something shocking and unexpected. He and his team now set a tone for all other teams to try and follow and you knew all teams would rise in the following matches. METRAJAYA went from scoring the first goal to sharing the Golden Boot and earning the MVP of the tournament working on defense early and moving up front late in the tournament.

The first games Saturday morning marked the end of the first round for all teams. Ironically the seeding for the 8am game saw Ganas FC being the first team to have a second match against Putra Pahlawan. Going into the event it was known PP had talented players who have played in our previous events. So, after watching Ganas FC score 8 goals and play a tactical exercise against Bali Pug the night before we knew we might

be witnessing a preview of the final.

The opening goal Saturday morning was scored by the MVP of the 2015 tournament in Sanur. The ball was out on the flank with isolation and the man on the ball was able to lift one in the path of Eddie Ronaldo, who caught the ball with an overhead bike, burying it into the upper corner. It may have been just after 8am in the morning but the beach lit up with excitement with those who were able to see this other example of worldclass showmanship. The game ended a 4-3 thriller with Ganas FC slipping in a winner late in a tight contest.

Final game did not see Putra Pahlawan as they ended up facing the two finalists in their first two games slipping again 4-3 to eventual finalist Tanjung in a game which was unfortunately influenced by inconsistencies, as the level of play, was beyond the capacity of the officials for the match. But, it showed the quality of a large group of players who knew how and could play beach soccer. It showed there is quite a bit of world-class potential in Bali.

The final saw a back and forth affair. Tanjung losing the first game of the competition really raised their level with each game. This helped as they played staunch defense throughout the final with the post and crossbar helping on a few occasions. That being said they clearly had chances to put Ganas FC away. But, it wasn’t finished and the game ended in regulation drawn at 2 goals apiece.

Aswe prepared for the inevitable kick’s from the spot following the 3 minute overtime the service from the keeper found METRAJAYA posting up with seconds left. He jumped with the opposition and knocked it down to the side of the feet of the keeper who could not adjust to get down to it. It took a bounce over the line and the jubilation was ecstatic! Seconds after Tanjung’s final attempt from kickoff the whistle closing the event was blown giving Ganas FC the title and prize money for the 2018

Final Results:

Champion:

Ganas FC Legian

1st Runner Up: Tanjung

2nd Runner Up: Kedonganan

3rd Runner Up: Ungasan

Media coverage was tremendous throughout the event. The news conference sponsored by Best Western International Kuta Beach had nearly 40 people in attendance. Multiple media outlets covered the games interviewing those who took part in this sports tourism creation in the Balinese hotspot.

The vibe amongst the entire community was very electric as everyone was already speaking of 2019.

After the eruption of Mount Agung last year Bali has seen their tourism drop 20%. This event invigorated the entire community especially after the Dragon boat race they hosted the weekend before. They want people to know the island hasn’t changed and its amazing people are ready to greet you and show you the time of your life.

This gives everyone a year to sort out their finances and prepare for a rumble in the tropical island of Bali. Where it might be expensive to get to from some corners of the world, but once you are there your after game massage will be less than $10.00 USD.

The drive of Pak Nyoman Sarjana and Pak Graha Wicaksana to create events to expose Bali as a sports tourism destination is working. Their efforts have seen a confirmation of the event to take place next year from April 28 - May 4th and will feature a $300 million Rupiah Purse ($20,000.00 USD). Start packing your bags and contact: sginfo@proambeachsoccer.net.

Pro-Am

Beach Soccer Presents the 2019 Bali Badung Beach Soccer Competition sponsored by the Badung Regency & Badung Beach Soccer Association.

April 28th - May 4th, 2019

Cash

Purse : $20,000.00 USD

- OCEANSIDE - SANTA CRUZ- POMPANO BEACH

- SEASIDE - GALVESTAN ISLAND - RACINE - ATLANTIC CITY

TERENCE BOWES

COACH

ENGLAND BEACH SOCCER

Bowes a former player with Arsenal and Ipswich Town got invited in 2001 by the PFA (Professional Football Association) to play for England Beach Soccer in Spain. And that was the start of his Beach Soccer journey. Preparing for the tournament in Spain was a a whole new experience, meeting his teammates for the first time at the Airport en route the tournament, trained together once and took on his first ever pro game barefoot on sand against Spain which turned out to be a heavy defeat. “The Spaniard led by Ramiro Amerelle showed us how Beach Soccer should be played”. - Bowes

Few years later, he was lucky to sit next to Amerelle on a FIFA Beach Soccer course. “He was very giving, showing me training methods and different tactics.”

- Bowes

His second International match also in 2001 was against France and the legendary Eric Cantona, no win but came with another set of valuable lessons.

However, his first win for England came on the third match against Switzerland with Angelo Schirinzi leading the team.

“What Angelo and Reto Wenger have done for Swiss Beach Soccer is incredible!, he is a great guy when I played for Sable Dancers, he hosted me at his family home. In this sport there are some amazing people who have helped the its development and Angelo is one of them” - Bowes

Later in 2003, when a former Liverpool and Tottenham defender John Scales became the Coach of England Beach Soccer, he made Bowes his Captain which he also held when Jamie O’Rourke was appointed the Coach.

“Jamie gave me the opportunity to be the Captain again and I felt we were going in the right direction under his leadership, but unfortunately after a heavy defeat to Portugal he decided to step down, and this left a void as England were without a manager for a long time”. - Bowes

Being England Beach Soccer captain under two Coaches, he got nominated by David Jones to be the new Head Coach, a role he still holds working with players who want to improve and be better at Beach Soccer.

“I have a very good group at the moment but I look back at most of the players who have been involved and I think they are incredible guys dedicating themselves to a wonderful sport.” – Bowes

2010 marked his 100th appearance for England and at the 2017 World Cup Qualifiers he clocked 200th, a mile stone he cherished.

“Although I have burning desire to win trophies in Beach Soccer, I have also understand clearly it is about developing the sport and helping others to grow”

- Bowes

Bowes has appeared for a Czech Team in the Prague Cup and the Chargers world select that won the Oceanside Cup. He was also on same team with Aaron Clarke in the Swiss League.

“I played at the 2018 Euro Winners Cup for Bulgarian Champions Spartak Varna, and have appeared in three editions of Copa Lagos Tournament (2011, 2015 and 2017). The last edition was quite tough playnig against Kebbi, Pepsi and Gidi Sharks. Now Aaron and I have been given a wonderful opportunity to play for Kebbi in Nigeria and this is something we are really looking forward to” - Bowes

My project, United Beach Soccer Club is something I have been working very hard on behind the scenes, the club based in South Florida holds weekly practices at the Miami Beach. The entire idea and name “United Beach Soccer Club” was born out of the passion and love I share with others for beach soccer. As you would agree with me that the sport really does unite people at a worldwide scale. And it’s really incredible to be a part of something that is pure, natural and beautiful with great opportunities to all.

How it started?

Iwas told once by someone who was very close to me that I wouldn’t be able to make it, details of which do not matter, but what’s important now are my reactions. I believed in myself, believe in the sport, and the joy it brings to people, that is why I started the club. My ambition and vision of sharing the joy of beach soccer begins with my-self believe and a lot of work hard.

Supports received?

Over the past year, support has come in many forms but would love to start with my mother whom has been very

supportive since day one. Mum, you are an angel. Also Kenny my brother, with him I was able to see the light when it was dark and push when I lost strength to accomplish this project. He has a great help to the club in many ways. And Ben Astorga, a mentor, coach, business partner, and friend through which I acquired the necessary knowledge required about Beach Soccer business and game strategy. He is the head coach and women’s Director for United Beach Soccer Club. Lastly, a big thank you to our sponsors @stoneybrands @probeachsoccerworldwide @organicell and @ftatehig

Where u are now?

The United Beach Soccer Club currently has an amazing women’s beach soccer team and is building the men’s team too.

Ambitions for the project

Our focus at the moment is growing the women’s side of the sport, with a goal to create youth teams as well, the U18 and U20 teams within the next few years. We will, of course have the male team too with the aim to participate in different tournaments around the world.

Aside teams activities, the United Beach Soccer Club also runs an academy for individuals who seek to develop technique in Beach Soccer or other soccer related sports. Not only does the academy tailor to athletes, but also an individual looking for a fun way to stay fit, as the United Beach Soccer Club has a place for everyone including you.

Sales@okunbeachwear.com

okunbeachwear.com

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Bloomsbury

SEN. ATIKU A. BAGUDU

EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR KEBBI STATE GRAND PATRON KEBBI BEACH SOCCER CLUB

Beach Soccer in Kebbi State has been fully embraced not only by myself but also the entire good people of Kebbi from all works of life, including the young and old.”

Through the Kebbi Beach Soccer and now the newly formed Kebbi United Football Club we have witnessed massive gains of sports to the benefit of our vibrant youths”

Your Excellency, unlike many Governors, your support for Beach Soccer is exceptional. Could you tell us why you embraced this fast growing sport?

HE - First of all, I’m delighted to have Beach Soccer Magazine feature me and by extension Kebbi State ahead of the forthcoming Kebbi Beach Soccer Sallah Tournament in such a time when we shall be hosting the world. Beach Soccer in Kebbi State has been fully embraced not only by myself but also the entire good people of Kebbi from all works of life, including the young and old. This is a sport we have seen its progression from the grass roots to a state competition, national and now an international event in just three to four years of its existence. Indeed it gives me great joy and admiration to see this growth being sustained and I encourage my counterparts to emulate and embrace this sport, an effective tool for youth empowerment. My Government is always ready to support positive initiatives like the Kebbi Beach Soccer Sallah Tournament that progressively affect the lives of our people.

Lately, Kebbi youths have continually been engaged with beach soccer programs. What structures including facilities have your administration put in place to ensure its sustainability?

HE - Sports always has a way of influencing the youths positively to further explore their potentials, and as a broad minded Government, we do not expect every child to become a scientist or doctor but to explore other avenues to excel in their God given talents. Through the Kebbi Beach Soccer and now the newly formed Kebbi United Football Club we have witnessed massive gains of sports to the benefit of our vibrant youths, as they now have a renewed motivation in sports to excel. And to ensure maximum sustained benefits are derived from these, my administration is ensuring that the necessary enabling environment and structures are provided, particularly the provision of a new Stadium that shall accommodate varieties of sport facilities, including a beach soccer stadium. This shall ensure our youths compete favorably with their counterparts from anywhere in the world. But I must add that that Government cannot do it all, support from the private sector is key to a holistic development.

The Nigerian National Beach Soccer team camped in Kebbi State late last year, indeed a first for the people of Kebbi. Would you host the Sand Eagles again if the opportunity arises?

HE - I must say a big thank you to the Nigeria Football Federation for the honour done to the State, we will always welcome the National team to their home. Hosting the Sand Eagles came with quite a number of benefits but I’ll like to highlight just a few. First is the unique opportunity offered our teeming and vibrant youths of Kebbi State to meet their role models directly, whom they only see on TV, indeed a wonderful experience for the people of Kebbi. And secondly, there is absolutely nothing better than training with the best, if you followed our outing at the Copa Lagos last year you will agree with me that my boys; the Kebbi Beach Soccer are the new national team and are ready for the world. Kebbi State is certainly a big promoter of the sport, what social and economic values have this brought to Kebbi?

HE - You may wish to know that organizers of the Kebbi Beach Soccer Tournament led by Mahmud have strategically made it an annual event from onset. This in itself is a massive boast to the State as people from all around the world have the opportunity to have a feel of this unique event during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations (Sallah festivities). And we have identified that it brings visible long lasting social impacts which are seen in the unity of purposeful living by our youths, which in turn reduces idleness. The economic value cannot be over emphasized, let me use the Sallah Tournament as an example again, which attracts visitors to Kebbi, promotes our tourism, and local businesses experience high sales, including the big ventures also experience sales boom during that period. The sport creates a platform for businesses from within and outside of the State to showcase their products and services to local customers and global audience. It is a win for all involved in the process and value is created.

And lastly, Kebbi Beach Soccer Club also known as Kebbi Fishers featured at the 2017 Copa Lagos International Beach Soccer to an impressive finish which you witnessed. How rewarding was this outing?

HE - We are really proud to feature at such event of high international repute and triumphing over all other teams from around the country except the team from England. Arsenal Club. I must say we are the best team in the country. I personally led a delegation from Kebbi to encourage and give support to thr boys in Lagos and we were thrilled by their performances. People back home saw live broadcasts, saw their own youths being cheered by the crowed to their amazement. You must agree with me that its always fullfiling when you watch your local team excelling among the very best. We must commend the Kebbi Fishers and their handlers for this great effort and as we look forward to more achievements, my administration remains committed to youth and sports development, particularly the Kebbi Beach Soccer and I look forward to hosting you in Kebbi State soon.

We would not miss the tournament your Excellency, and thank you for having us.

HE - My pleasure.

Mahmud Hadejia

CHAIRMAN KEBBI BEACH SOCCER ASSOCIATION

BSmag - Who is Mahmud Hadejia?

I am the Chairman of Kebbi Beach Soccer Association and also a member of the Beach Soccer and Futsal committee of the Nigeria Football Federation. I have got a sound background is Project Management and marketing. Happily married to an amazing lady with two lovely kids.

My love for sports goes way back to my childhood. I still play soccer with some cool tricks left in the bag. I also played basketball and Polo among others. Right now my passion is Beach Soccer and am so obsessed with full time commitments. Basically, you can call me Mr. Beach Soccer.

BSmag - Why beach soccer?, and Kebbi?

Beach Soccer being a unique sport brings a bit of everything in terms of action, drama, emotions, entertainment and lots of goals. I followed the sport as a fan until myself and a few friends decided to officially introduce the sport to Kebbi State in northern Nigeria. To state the fact

Beach Soccer prematurely existed in Kebbi and other parts of the north with kids playing barefoot on sandy pitches. The challenge was we never had the opportunity to learn the basics techniques to allow it grow to a certain level that we can call it Beach Soccer. But we took that bold step and the rest is now history as Beach Soccer has really grown beyond boundaries in Kebbi State and other parts of the country. Kebbi people are proud of the progress made thus far.

BSmag - Tell us about your annual tournaments.

The first edition of Kebbi Beach Soccer Sallah Tournament was held in 2015 featuring only teams from Kebbi. But over the years it has grown to become a National tournament and this year going international with teams from within and outside the country battling for the prestigious trophy. It’s timing of Sallah (Eid-el-Fitr) festive holiday period makes it quite unique in the calendar year. People from all works of life looks forward to experiencing the excitement of beach soccer. It has become a carnival with lots of traditional and cultural display as side attraction for entertainment. The Nigerian Football Federation provides technical support which raises the bar, making the stakes high and eventually matches

become very competitive among the participating teams. The Kebbi State Government gives maximum support with His Excellency the Executive Governor, his family and cabinet members gracing the occasion which adds colour to the event. The small and medium scale businesses including the corporate brands also get to promote their products and services all under one roof. Therefore, the event has grown to become a household brand presenting an avenue to promote sports tourism and adding economic value to Kebbi State in the shortest period of its existence. The fans also get to see quality beach soccer and best content delivery which keeps improving every year. Most recently, we were awarded with the best event of the year 2017, and this we are very proud of.

BSmag - You had a debut appearance at the 2017 Copa Lagos, what does this mean to the club?

Yeah I must admit Copa Lagos was a wonderful experience for the Kebbi Beach Soccer club popularly known as Kebbi fishers. We were underdogs going into the tournament as debutants but we prepared the team with three weeks camping in Kebbi. We hired an

experienced technical team led by Coach Abdullahi Isa who is CAF licensed. He played in the national team and now a Coach. The Team trained with the national Team, built a lot of confidence which were evident during their outing. We played Arsenal Beach Soccer Club in the opening match, which was quite electric.

Though we narrowly lost 9-11 to an experienced side who are the English Champions, but

we showed character and zeal winning other games with Gidi Sharks of Lagos and Pepsi Football Academy who were defending champions. Eventually, after final round of matches we were tied with same points as Arsenal BSC at the top of the log table but got first runners up on head to head rule. At the end of the

tournament, we felt on top of the world, picking up Man of the match awards in all three games played including the match we lost to Arsenal. We broke records including the highest number of goals (26) scored in a single Copa Lagos tournament. We felt very proud and were celebrated as heroes back in Kebbi. I still

receive phone calls from team members and fans expressing their delight on the deserved achievement by the club and this gives me great joy. Its always a good moment to share and it will remain in our memories forever.

BSmag - How challenging has it been running the club?

To be honest challenges do come but we have managed to overcome most of them as they come. We have a sound management team who are committed and experienced. I personally have fun and get

joy taking up the challenge of running such a club and the association.

Some of the challenges we faced starting up this project was to convince people it could work both within and outside. We get questions like; do you even have a beach? Why are you wasting your time when you can do other regular

sports? It was certainly a bold and crazy idea but knowing the terrain and what turns people on, I knew it was very possible. I knew beach soccer is played on sand not inside the water. I also understood how people get crazy about anything soccer and how the timing of the tournament will fit in to attract large crowds.

BSmag - What are your plans and ambitions for the club?

The plan is to continue doing the right things and improve in areas we have challenges. Already we have drawn up a programme and the popular 2018 edition of the annual tournament is insight. Secondly we have improvised a state tournament to cover the 21 local governments in Kebbi using the four emirates (Argungu, Gwandu, Yauri, Zuru) to be called “Emirates Cup”. Am confident it will work perfectly in developing the sport across the state to produce more talents who will represent the Kebbi and the national team in future. We also have plans of hosting a beach soccer clinic to educate the teaming youth in reaching their full potential and build on the foundation in place. Our ambition as a club is to participate in tournaments both in Nigeria and internationally. Our dream is to have a standard beach soccer stadium facility in Kebbi State for trainings and host international matches. We want to continue breaking records and write our history in this amazing sport. Most importantly we want to inspire other clubs and associations from other parts of the world to adopt beach soccer and allow it reach its desired heights. Personally, I want to change and improve positively the lives of young players who haven’t had the opportunity in the past to become world stars. The recent example in Umar Bulangi, Kebbi Captain who broke into the National team.

I also want to see Kebbi beach soccer club win laurels and get worldwide recognition playing entertaining beach soccer. I believe doing this will put Kebbi on the map and project the image of the state and the country in good light through beach soccer.

BSmag - following your recent exploits, did you see your appointment into the Beach Soccer committee of the Nigeria Football Federation coming?, and how would this help the growth of the game.

First of all, am not sure I saw it coming. I must commend the NFF for maintaining the beach soccer committee and thank them for my recent appointment. Am ready and its my pleasure to serve always. We have made progress with Kebbi beyond expectations and this has caught attention of stakeholders across board. We believe we have inspired others who are now picking interest in the sport. The Nigerian National team also camped in Kebbi late last year ahead of Copa lagos 2017. All this has changed a lot and stakeholders are now taking beach soccer as a serious business. My good friends/colleagues Mr Samson Adamu organizer of Copa Lagos tournament for seven years, Architect Taye Olajide chief editor of Beach Soccer Magazine, Isiaka Olawale, Abdullahi Isa from Kada beach soccer and now ourselves from Kebbi beach soccer association have set the pace. I believe its time other administrators from other parts take the challenge

to grow this beautiful sport in various cities across Nigeria. Am very confident Beach soccer is here to stay and will continue growing to fulfill its potential. Certainly, am ready to play my role in growing and supporting anything beach soccer in the country.

BSmag - Nigeria is a highly rated team, particularly in the continent but doesn’t have a beach soccer league. Do you share in the call for a league?

Yeah sure, I agree its been long over due and it can only help the sport grow. Meanwhile my approach to the league is different, I think we need to start by encouraging and supporting more states to

adopt beach soccer and host tournaments. Therefore will have more teams across board and then we can organise a National league to compete week in week out. There are soccer players with abundant talent waiting to be given the opportunity to showcase it.

I will suggest the FA Chairmen in collaboration with private sector and State Governments including Abuja capital city to support in set-

ting up beach soccer teams. This will surely go a long way in developing and improving beach soccer not just in the states but definitely to the National team.

Finally, to achieve this it will need a lot of hard work and commitment with share passion to the sport. Facilities are key and that’s why we need Governments and corporate bodies involved.

BSmag - Thank you.

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Keta

beach soccer

Since the introduction of organized Beach Soccer in Ghana, Sunset Sports Keta a grass roots sports club in the Volta coastal belt of Ghana has been the most successful Beach Soccer club in the country.

The three times Ghanaian national league champions, won their first two titles back to back in 2012 and 2013/14 seasons and the third in 2015 out of total of four league seasons till date.

The Club. a regular player feeder into the Ghanaian national team, hosts the annual Keta Cup, an international beach soccer tournament that has featured some of the best beach soccer clubs in West Africa, including the Nigerian Kogi Confluence club and Badagry BSC.

With development partners like the Sandlanders football and the Aborigines Beach Resorts, the club is set to take on new exploits such as their recent appearance at the 2018 Kebbi Beach Soccer Cup in Nigeria where they finished third place.

AARONCLARKE

C

larke, an english pro Beach Soccer star, considered one of the best on the sand made first twenty Beach Soccer global ambassadors recently appointed by Beach Soccer Worldwide.

He is regarded by many as a player with great skills and flamboyancy, with many individual and team awards which includes;

- Copa Lagos club champions 2017

- Virginia Beach Soccer champions

- English league champions

- English Super Cup champions

- Dunkerque Trophy champions

- USA Oceanside champions

- Sal Cup runners up

- Malmo Cup winners

- Barbados league champions.

Who is Aaron Clerk?

Iam the England and Arsenal current beach soccer captain. I started playing beach soccer in 2013 with Thailand being my Debut tour. In the tournament we played Portugal, Germany and Thailand. I scored my debut goal against Portugal which was an amazing feeling.

You are widely traveled playing the game, which destination would be your favorite and why?

Ihavebeen to many tournaments in different countries but I really like Nigeria’s Copa Lagos, I have always been welcomed to this tournament with open arms and the fans always provide us with amazing support.

Copa Lagos, tell us about it your experience at the last edition.

Copa Lagos 2017 was another amazing tournament, this is the first time I have played in the Clubs tournament. I think the beach soccer in Nigeria is a very good standard. When we were preparing for championship, I knew we would play against physically stronger and quicker teams so my training focus was more on technical and mental parts

of the game in order to be one step ahead. I feel Nigerian beach soccer is improving year by year and I look forward to see what it is like at the Copa Lagos 2018 edition.

Tell us a bit about your club.

Arsenal BS had a successful season last year winning five trophies, three in England & two international.

How have you been able to perfectly blend your pro career in beach soccer with your other engagements?

Beach soccer is something I enjoy and have wanted to do for years, I remember being a child and watching the Sport on TV and now to be able to represent my country and play the sport all around the world is dreams come true. Beach soccer has to be a priority for me in order to improve therefore I make sure I am available to train every day and try to compete in tournaments all around the world.

What else takes your time aside beach soccer and are you involved in a project you’ll like to share?

Iamalso a football coach for the Arsenal Academy and this is my 8th season coaching the elite boys from 9-16 years old with the academy. I have worked with some great coaches and learnt a lot which has also benefited my beach soccer career.

You were recently capped a 100, what does this mean to you and how would this impact your career going forward?

Representing your country is dreams come true but to be able to represent your country over 100 games leaves me speechless. However I could not have achieved this without my team mates who have been with me every step of the way and helped me progress as a player. I have also worked with quite a few coaches like Angelo Schirinzi, Angel Lopez Torres and Ramiro Amarelle who have all helped me immesely in my career.

Would you be willing to take up coaching full time?

Ienjoy coaching but don’t think I will go in to management, for now I’m focused on playing and trying to improve as an individual and as a team. I have only been playing this sport for 5 years so there is still a lot to learn and I’m enjoying the process and look forward to the future.

Thank you

You’re welcome anytime.

2018, BIGGEST BEACH SOCCER SEASON YET !

The IWBSA (Isle of Wight Beach Soccer Association) is responsible for Beach Soccer and Futsal on the Isle of Wight and affiliated to Hampshire FA. IWBSA is helping develop Beach Soccer along with Futsal and is working very closely with the English Beach Soccer Association on many different aspects of the sport. The 2018 IW’s Beach Soccer season kicked off with the Youth Championships at Appley with a massive 19 events. The recent licence agreement between the IW Beach Soccer Association and IW Council ensures the 2018 season feature more events than ever before, with a special focus on enhancing the youth, particularly the female sections of the sport. Other highlights during the season include the Girls’ Beach Sports Festival on July 21st and the senior men’s National Championship Finals on July 22nd. There will also be a series of beach soccer skills camps during the school holidays for children in years 1 to 6.

IWBSA has various Beach Soccer and Futsal championships running on the Isle of Wight and has the most established cups, leagues and teams in the UK.

IWBSA will be running various events through out the year from Senior Cups to School Cups and holding various coaching courses for all ages, bringing you what is the very best in the beach soccer life style.

- UK Mens Beach Soccer Super Cup.

- UK Womens Beach Soccer Super Cup

- Youth Beach Soccer Championships U7, U8, U9, U10, U11 & U12.

- Youth Beach Soccer Championships U13, U14, U16 & U18

“This summer, we are hosting more beach soccer events than ever before, thanks to the new licence with the Isle of Wight Council. This will enable us to grow the sport, particularly the youth sections, where we’re aiming to hold more events for youngsters aged between six and 16. We will also be focusing on the development and growth of girls’ and ladies’ beach soccer over the next five years, an initiative which has also been supported by Ryde Town Council. Currently, we have nearly 800 members, 500 of which are children and more than 85% are boys. We want that figure to change, so we have an equal representation of girls and boys in beach sports. We have employed an FA coach, Jess Cutler, who will be our lead Girls’ Development Coach, and she will also be supported by England international and European champion Katie James, who will also work for Elite Soccer UK as a Beach Soccer Mentor. Having these two ladies as role models and leads will help us grow the girls’ game much quicker.” - Luke Kerr: GM, IWBSA

Ghana’s Unity Cup

The maiden Beach Sports Festival held on African Union (AU) Day was highlighted by a massive health walk from La, Trade Fair to Laboma Beach resort.

Accra Mayor Hon Mohammed Agyei Sowah led the walk and carried the giant Beach Soccer Unity Cup to the beach to the delight of onlookers and participants alike.

The event had strong media coverage led by UK based Yorkshire Enterprise, Gtv, Yfm, Pulse Ghana, Ice TV, GN TV and official television broadcast partner Kwesé Free Sports leading as media partners.

Not even a rainstorm mid afternoon that lasted over an hour, could dampen an event which climaxed beyond organisers wildest expectations.

With newcomers and guest participants Eastern and Ashanti region, the tournament assumed a fierce competition edge.

In the end, experience was brought to bear as the final match ended 4-3 in favour of Volta region who defeated Team Greater Accra in a spectacular and combative encounter.

However, it was team Ashanti, playing in her first ever beach soccer competition that stole the headlines with a shock 2-1 win over Greater Accra at the group stage.

The event was supported by Kasapreko products with Awake Mineral water, Veraldo Malt and Storm Energy Drink. Other are McDan, Cowbell, CAL Bank, Kwesé Free Sports, Gtv and Yfm the official radio broadcast partner.

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