Athletes sense 'unity' during weekend-long sports tournament hosted by Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association in Maple

Yorkregion.com
Sept. 20, 2021

Over hundreds of athletes are partaking in a sports tournament hosted by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA) in Maple, from Sept. 18 to 19.

The event, Fazle Umar sports rally, is taking place on the sports fields at the Baitul Islam Mosque, putting teams from different municipalities across the region and GTA to face off in some friendly competition.

Health guidelines are being followed as per COVID-19 protocols, and brings youth together after the many lockdowns to enjoy each other's company, and to bring a sense of unity.

Every year, the AMYA hosts tournaments and initiatives that benefit the wider community such as food and blood banks, however due to the pandemic, they faced putting the tournaments on hold.

This year, the association has resumed their tournaments. "We thought it was important to have these initiatives for their social well-being and social interaction," said Hassaan Shahid, member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association.

Regional Coun. Gino Risoti made a presence at the event to show his support.

The sports tournament was free for everyone to join. Ages of athletes ranged from 15 years old and upwards.

AMYA is the largest Muslim youth group of its kind in Canada, with over 90 local chapters across Canada. The objective of AMYA is to foster within the Ahmadi Muslim youth, the true core Islamic values of serving mankind and giving back to the community. AMYA's slogan is "nations cannot be reformed without the reformation of the youth." Through the Muslims for Life campaign, AMYA has proudly been supporting Canadian Blood Services by participating in blood drives and stem cell swabbing events.

For more information about AMYA, visit www.khuddam.ca.