Lae firm invests in young soccer players

By PISAI GUMAR
THE skillful game of all – soccer – has stirred some interest among the community in West Taraka, Lae, to invest in junior players so that they became champions in the future
West Taraka-based company Zilu Scientific professional and accuracy had been involved in helping youths in the community to promote peace and harmony.
It would also keep them busy and away from  getting involved in illegal activities.
The company had sponsored the Zilu Scientific West and Atuns who are playing in the premier divisions of Lae Football Association competition.
This year, they have introduced U13 competition at Backyard Soccer Association in West Taraka suburb to develop the young generation.
It would help become productive in soccer and other activities in the community.
Backyard Soccer Association president Robert Onea said they had organised a Christmas 7-a-side tournament.
A team comprises three girls and four boys. 
“It was also to promote gender equality with women seen as equal partners in any community activity,” Onea said.
The interest had drawn 14 teams from Wan Block to Abuim and Butu to participate in the tournament.
G13 and MSF made it to the finals. G13 beat MSF 2-0 while Lus Particles came third with Babus settling for fourth place.
The winners walked away with K300, runners-up K200, third K150 and forth K100.
Drain Insects, Bumbu United, Bullets and Rabbitohs got consolation prizes.
“The off-season competition will see 46 teams participating in the competition.
“West Taraka has changed from rugby league to soccer. It has seen most youths from highlands joining up with their friends from the coastal residing in the communities to play soccer. We see the bright future in the code,” Onea said.
The Zilu scientific also bought a truck, registered a company with Investment Promotion Autho­rity and handed over to the youths to participate in community garbage collection and grasscutting activities.