ULU KLANG RECREATION CLUB (UKRC), after organising the Under-12 Soccer 7s successfully, will now venture into another event for the Under-17 age group.

UKRC president Andrew Gopal said the Under-12 Soccer 7s, held for the second year, was an eye- opener and they had received encouraging feedback.

“The positive response from teams as well as the active participation of the community has prompted us to look into the Under-17 age group. In fact, we have plans to organise three age group competitions annually.

“We hope to invite some foreign teams to add international flavour. It will be an excellent platform for our youngsters to play against their foreign counterparts. We have to look at a window period, when there are no examinations, to organise the Under-17 championship.

The proud winners: Players from Little League celebrate with their trophies and medals.

“Being a community-based club, we want to create opportunities for youngsters to be active in healthy activities. Our involvement will not be to football only as we are also keen to initiate programmes in netball and basketball,’’ said Andrew.

The one-day UKRC Under-12 Soccer 7s attracted 12 teams. In the end, Little League and Jasmine Putra United, a team from Semenyih, qualified for the final.

In the 14-minute final, Little League notched a 1-0 win to become the champions.

UKRC Red scored a 1-0 win over First Touch Assumption to win the Plate category.

Little League’s Ben Howard, for the second season, was the top scorer with three goals while Bintang Biru were awarded the Fairplay trophy.

The presence of parents also created a carnival atmosphere during the event. The parents served as helpers for the teams.

My ball!: Little League's Ben Howard (right) in a tussle for the ball with Jasmine Putra United's Mohd Firdaus.

Jasmine Putra United coach John Chandramohan said they were taking part in the competition for the first time.

“It was well organised and our players had a good time. They had the chance to play some competitive matches which will benefit them in the long run,’’ said John.

The competition was supported by Milo, 100 Plus, Line 7 and Nufa Advertising. Line 7 marketing manager Terence W.K. Cheong praised UKRC for organising a meaningful event for the development of football.

“Now they must look at other age groups. Since they have the facilities, they can look at the Under-10 and Under-8 age groups also. We will be pleased to support the programmes,’’ said Terence.

Hulu Kelang assemblyman Saari Sungib gave away the prizes to the winning teams.