Rotherham United Community Trust held their annual Ramadan After Hours tournament over the past three weeks.
The tournament, which has been running for two years and is funded by the Premier League Fans Fund, brings together people from a wide range of backgrounds, faiths, and playing styles.
With over 130 participants, the event also encourages people to stay active by connecting with others whilst enjoying football in a supportive environment.
“Football is kind of the hook to get people in: without even realising, they’re chatting to people about Ramadan.” said organiser of the event and Youth and Inclusion at Rotherham United Community Trust.
Men aged 16 and over were invited to play in the tournament, where there were 5-a-side tournaments each week.
The weekly event, held in Rotherham Indoor Football Centre, was also free to enter for all participants.
“For many Muslim players, it provided the opportunity to compete without disrupting their fasting routine, showing that faith and sport can go together hand in hand.” said Dylan.
“Community, respect, and togetherness are key, and creating a space where people from all backgrounds can come together. Everyone should leave feeling like they’ve been part of something bigger than just a kickabout.”
The trust also ran drop-in midnight badminton sessions at Places Leisure and Rotherham Leisure Complex, which welcomed women from across South Yorkshire. These sessions ran every Monday and Wednesday.
“The plan to grow would be to have something for people to get involved with throughout the whole of Ramadan, not just over three weeks.” said Dylan.
“People appreciate being seen and knowing that organisations recognise what’s happening during Ramadan and adapt their provisions to fit them. Even those who didn’t take part have been appreciative that we took the time to put these provisions on for them.”
Looking ahead, the trust aims to expand the event so there are activities throughout the entire month, helping to educate continue educating people about Ramadan.
“I think that opportunities like this to bring people together, even if you’re not partaking in fasting or Ramadan, just being around people that are is the best learning experience that you can have.”
“We also hope events like this open the door for people to feel comfortable attending sessions open to everyone. For those who may have felt daunted or lacked confidence, meeting coaches and seeing familiar, friendly faces can help remove barriers.” said Dylan.