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The Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Tsang Tak-sing, said today (September 20) that the Home Affairs Bureau (HAB) will introduce a new funding scheme to strengthen support for district-based football teams competing in Hong Kong Football Association (HKFA) senior leagues.
Speaking at today's Flag Presentation Ceremony for the 7th National Intercity Games, which will be held in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province in mid October, Mr Tsang said that the HAB will offer grants from the Arts and Sport Development Fund to district-based football teams to boost coaching and administrative support.
The Government is committed to promoting the long-term development of football in Hong Kong - the Chief Executive made this clear in his 2010-11 Policy Address. The new funding scheme will give more support to district football teams, which provide important development pathways for local football players.
Under the new funding scheme, district-based teams competing in HKFA's top three divisions will be eligible for annual grants of up to $500,000 to help towards coaching, transport and administrative expenses, as well as the purchase of equipment. The HAB has earmarked more than $5 million for this scheme for the current season.
Grants provided to district-based football teams will supplement the funding that teams already receive from District Councils. Teams will be invited to apply for grants for the current football season, and funding will be made available from November 2011 onwards.
Ends/Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Issued at HKT 19:07
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