Qatar National Sport Day was celebrated in Houston again this year, thanks to the Embassy of the State of Qatar, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston, and Dynamo Charities.
On Tuesday, February 11, the Spring Branch Boys & Girls Club had 120 children - ranging in age from 6 to 14 - join Forward Christian Ramirez and Midfielder Boniek Garcia of the Houston Dynamo and Goalkeeper Jane Campbell and Forward Katie Stengel of the Houston Dash in a soccer clinic led by Houston Dynamo Youth coaches and players. Also present were diplomats from Qatar’s Houston Consulate. The clinic featured numerous chances for the students to enhance their skills, practice moves, and even participate in scrimmages.
His Excellency Ambassador Meshal bin Hamad Al-Thani, Qatar’s Ambassador to the United States, said: “We were excited to join forces again this year with the Houston Dynamo and Boys & Girls Clubs to celebrate National Sport Day. In addition to celebrations inside Qatar, there were fun, family activities taking place around the world, including Houston and several other American cities. We take considerable pride in promoting the importance of sports and healthy lifestyles in our community and beyond.”
Qatar is one of several countries that celebrate a national sports holiday, with residents being encouraged to participate in many sporting events offered in stadiums and parks across Qatar with both friends and family. Throughout the day, participants also learn about the unique sporting heritage Qatar has and how it has helped shape the country’s growth over the years, including the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup that will be held in Qatar.
“We are proud to have once again partnered with Qatar and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston to help promote Qatar’s National Sport Day and the wonderful impact that soccer can provide people,” said Club President John Walker. “This partnership exemplifies and validates the international reach that Major League Soccer in Houston provides on a global scale, while still focusing on our hometown communities and growing the game in Houston.”
