AJFC opens door for two to train at Bayern
Allianz Junior Football Camp (AJFC) Malaysia League have always been committed to helping aspiring young footballers realise their dreams of becoming professional players.
This year, AJFC will be going nationwide for the first time since its inception in 2012, with two lucky players standing a chance of a lifetime to train at Sabener Strasse, home to reigning Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich.
A total of 96 teams from six regions — Central, Northern, Southern, East Coast, Sabah and Sarawak — will battle it out to become champions in their respective divisions from March 2, before moving into the Grand Finals which will be held in July.
Ten players will also be selected for AJFC Asia in Singapore, before the top two are picked for AJFC in Munich.
Allianz Life Insurance Malaysia Berhad chief executive Joseph Gross said: “At Allianz, we always want to give back to society.
“And through the AJFC, we get to show these young boys of what it means to become a professional player. Life isn’t all that easy and you have to work really hard to achieve your dreams.
“I am glad to have created the AJFC and it makes me proud to see it happening in Malaysia.
“As you know, Allianz own nine per cent of Bayern Munich, and we want to see how we can go beyond the sponsorship to bring our connection to the grassroots.”
Former Melaka United coach E. Elavarasan, who was roped in to head the selection panel this year, believes the AJFC will allow more players from rural areas to have the opportunity to get involved and have a feel of professional football.
The competition is open to all players aged between 14-16, except those from state project schools, national sports schools and the National Football Academy.
“I think what Allianz is doing with the AJFC is great. You do not find many leagues in the country which cater to players in this age group. “Methodology is crucial when it comes to grassroots,” said Elavarasan, who is currently pursuing his AFC professional licence.
The regional champions will receive RM3,500, while the Grand Finals winner will take home an additional RM2,500.