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If fast pace, exciting atmosphere and relative ease in forming teams and finding venues have made three-a-side basketball so popular in Hong Kong, Joga 3, the three-a-side football game sharing the same attributes, is definitely something to watch out for.
To arouse public interest in the game, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department will organise a series of Joga 3 Football Fun Days and Competitions in various districts from July to December with the assistance of the Hong Kong Football Association (HKFA).
The most striking features of Joga 3 are that each game last only three minutes and there is no goalkeeper. "Off-side rule" does not apply. No time will be added in case of a draw and "sudden death" will be adopted for the ensuing penalty kicks.
All these, together with the small size of the pitch – just 15 metres times 11 metres, call for lightning speed and aggressive play, guaranteed to keep spectators on the edge of their seats.
Enrolment for the Joga 3 Football Fun Days and Competitions has already started for some districts. Deadlines are approaching for enrolment in competitions in Tuen Mun District, Wong Tai Sin District, Sai Kung District and Wan Chai District. Interested parties should act fast.
The fun days and competitions are open to females as well as males.
Participants in the fun days will learn the basic skills and rules of Joga 3 from HKFA coaches free of charge. Then they will practise and play in groups.
Enrolment in the competitions, also free, is for teams of three to five. Matches will be held for four categories: Open (aged 19 or above), Youth (aged between 16 and 18), Junior (aged between 13 and 15), Children (aged 12 or under) and Parents-children (at least one adult aged 18 or above accompanying at least one family member aged 6 to 17).
Activity dates and enrolment details are available on the department website: www.lcsd.gov.hk.
Ends/Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Issued at HKT 18:18
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