UFL Mall Tour big hit among young booters

MANILA, Philippines - The United Football League completed the second leg of the UFL Mall Tour with 114 kids taking part in the five-hour affair which featured some of the league’s star players and coaches in basic football drills and exhibition contests at SM Fairview recently.

Head coach Leigh Manson of recent champion Global led the UFL contingent, which included national team players Kenshiro Daniels and Andrew Liauw of Kaya, and Roxy Dorlas of Loyola Meralco Sparks. UFL standouts Paolo Bugas, Graham Caygill (Loyola), Ronnie Aguisanda Arvin Soliman (Green Archers United Globe), Shirmar Felongco, Fitch Arboleda, Wilson Munoz (Stallion Giligan’s), John Kanayama, and coach Chris of Global.

Aside from taking part in dribbling, passing, and shooting drills, the participants played against the UFL stars in two matches that pitted six pro players against 50 children. The UFL standouts also thrilled the big crowd with a 20-minute 6-on-6 contest which ended at 7-7.

“It’s exciting to bring the thrill of football to young children trying out the sport for the very first time. Through events like this, kids can experience how much fun the game is, and how easy it is to play. Regardless of playing surface, footwear, or apparel, as long as there’s a ball, children can enjoy the game. It’s our hope to infect these kids with the same football enthusiasm. We hope to see these kids participating in UFL events and competitions in the future,” said UFL general manager Rely San Agustin.

The final leg of the UFL Mall Tour will be held at SM Manila on July 5.