The American Muslim Youth Club and IQOU Theological College hosted the third annual Ladies Soccer Tournament Fundraiser in early October at the historical IQOU campus. Over 100 young ladies and girls from ages 9-19 participated in the tournament, held from Oct 13-15, which featured over 20 games played by nine teams from as far away as Canada, Georgia and New York.
In the face of rain and chilling weather, the weekend was full of fierce competitiveness, and extreme athleticism as the teams, divided into junior and senior divisions, competed for the Championship. But it would be the previous champions of both leagues that carried home the trophy after fiercely defending it against longtime rivals.
In the Senior Division championship game, the game remained scoreless as both teams showed great skill and determination. Yet Gillani Gems managed to pull off a 3-0 win against the White Hawks after three sudden death penalty kicks from MVP winner Sonia Bowers, Raashidah Mujahid, and Sultanah Rall.
The Junior Division championship game was no less competitive, as Jennah’s Jewels fought to defend their title against the Tidal Waves and their star striker Ruqiyyah Johnson- who had a league high of 11 goals over the weekend. It would be Afeeyah Mumin, MVP Junior Division winner, who saved the game from sudden death and secured the win 1-0 with a late goal in the second half.
Simultaneously, AMYC hosted a young men’s volleyball and flag football tournaments on the neighboring field.
AMYC organizer Fatima Brewster stated, “It is so nice to see the youth come and show their skills for the sake of a good cause. It is especially nice for the young ladies, who remain fully garbed during the games, to show that the hijab does not prevent ladies from playing sports.”
Not just about the games
Although the sports tournaments are the highlight of the weekend, the occasion is also a time for community members to visit the future IQOU Theological College Campus and its historical building, as well as to speak with faculty and staff. Originally built during the segregation era for “colored kids”, the school is currently under renovation to be the future location for seated classes of both IQOU Theological College and her sister school Noor Academy. Presently IQOU Theological College and Noor Academy offer virtual classes with both national and international students.
Amidst this backdrop of sport and support, wafted the scents of deliciously prepared snacks and meals from dozens of food vendors. Also for purchase were clothing and beauty products. Overall, despite the at times inclement weather, it was a weekend of family, fun and fundraising.
S. Aisha Muqit Qadira
