Shell and the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu launched the “FutbolNet” programme in Jubail. The “FutbolNet” programme is developed and executed in cooperation with the FC Barcelona Foundation and uses football to promote teamwork, commitment, tolerance and respect among children between the ages of 8 and 17.
A team of 20 trained coaches will work with 300 Saudi youth on a specially developed training programme over a period of four months, using football as a tool for education and reflection on values, to promote social cohesion and integration, and to transmit healthy habits.
Patrick Van Daele, Country Chairman for Shell in Saudi Arabia said “Shell is proud to be partnering with the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu to introduce FutbolNet to the Kingdom. This is about young people acquiring essential skills to succeed in life through football. The programme taps into the most popular sport in the region – football – to bring essential “Skills for Life” and to inspire a healthy and active lifestyle.”
In addition to Saudi Arabia, FutbolNet is also active in Oman, Iraq and Qatar where it develops key success factors in the job market such as leadership skills. In Qatar the project will be specifically designed to encourage children and teenagers to have a healthier lifestyle and combat serious health issues such as obesity.
The FC Barcelona Foundation is globally recognised for its social commitment and together with international partnerships, has developed different programs using sports as a vehicle to promote positive values to children and teenagers all over the world. Aside from Shell, the FC Barcelona Foundation has international partnerships with different UN Agencies, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Fundación Pies Descalzos and the Leo Messi Foundation.