Oxfordshire FA was delighted to be welcomed into Banbury Madni Masjid on Friday 22 March, as members of the county’s Muslim community were able to learn about the variety of opportunities to get involved in football across the county as part of a Celebration of Football event held during Ramadan. 

During the course of the event, Oxfordshire FA was honoured to join over 40 people attending Banbury Madni Masjid in breaking fast, before discussing Ramadan and considerations that must be afforded to those playing, coaching and refereeing while celebrating the Holy Month. 

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO BBC RADIO OXFORD'S FEATURE ON OUR CELEBRATION OF FOOTBALL EVENT (SIGN IN REQUIRED FOR BBC SOUNDS)

Through discussions led by Abdoullah Kheir, The FA’s Diversity and Inclusion Coach Development Officer, and Andy Hunt, Oxfordshire referee and member of Oxfordshire FA’s Inclusion Advisory Group, insight was provided into the way Oxfordshire FA can assist members of the county’s diverse ethnic communities in getting involved in football.  

Supported by Oxfordshire FA’s Football Development Manager, Michael Thurlow, and Inclusion Football Officer Youcef El Barhdadi, information was also provided on the guidance and development provisions on offer through the County FA. 

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO BBC RADIO OXFORD'S LIVE COVERAGE OF OUR EVENT (48 MINS 35 SECS IN) - SIGN IN REQUIRED FOR BBC SOUNDS

Michael said: “It was an incredible experience and a true privilege to join so many people in breaking fast and learning more about both Ramadan and how members of our community, from different ethnic backgrounds, view the opportunities to get involved in grassroots football. We firmly believe that football is for all and we’re passionate about ensuring every member of our local community feels included in the game, which is why events such as this that provide an opportunity for mutual learning and understanding are so valuable.  

“Our thanks go to Banbury Madni Masjid for extending a kind invite to us, and to everyone that attended and engaged with us. We had some great conversations with many people, some of whom initially only attended for evening prayer before taking time to talk. We hope to welcome them to sessions, workshops and events in future.” 

To learn more about Oxfordshire FA’s commitment to inclusion across football in the county, please click here. 
 
If you’d like to learn more about the opportunities available in the game within Oxfordshire, please contact Michael Thurlow, Football Development Manager, via Support@OxfordshireFA.com