YKK and Real Madrid Foundation empowers 300 Sri Lankan kids

By Susil Premalal

The playing attire that will be worn by the children

More than 300 underprivileged children from across Sri Lanka were given a chance to learn, play and grow through football as YKK Holding Asia, together with YKK Lanka, hosted the third edition of the YKK ASAO Kids Football Clinic in partnership with the Real Madrid Foundation. 

The three-day clinic commenced yesterday and ends on Friday at the Racecourse Ground in Colombo, supported by the Football Federation of Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs.

The event was attended by YHA President Kazuto Daimon, YKK Lanka Managing Director Kei Tanaka, YKK Lanka General Manager Raushan Azim and RMF Area Manager Andres Muntaner Borrajo along with senior officials from the Football Federation and the Ministry. Since its launch in 2007, the YKK AKFC programme has reached over 12 Asian countries and positively impacted more than 7,500 children, with Sri Lanka being a regular host.

This year’s clinic targeted children aged 8 to 17 from orphanages and underserved communities, offering them structured training in both basic and advanced football skills. Younger children learned foundational techniques, while older participants focused on strategy, discipline and sportsmanship. 

Alongside them, 30 Sri Lankan coaches benefited from professional training sessions conducted by Real Madrid Foundation experts, ensuring the programm’s long-term impact on grassroots football development.

“Football is a powerful tool to inspire children, especially those with limited opportunities,” said Kazuto Daimon, President of YHA. “Beyond the game, they learn teamwork, discipline, confidence and respect – values that stay with them for life.”

The Real Madrid Foundation coaches brought a unique methodology that balanced technical training with fun and meaningful experiences. Equipment used in the clinic was donated to local NGOs and schools to sustain the initiative, while YKK Lanka continues to support communities through broader CSR efforts, including healthcare projects.