September 23 – Several North Macedonian clubs have tried to sell children’s equipment that was previously donated by the Football Federation of North Macedonia (FFM), the governing body has announced.
In early September, the FFM made a record donation worth €150,000 to 42 different clubs from across the pyramid. In totall 44 sets of training kit and 30 footballs were donated to support 1,848 youth footballers in the country.
“We are particularly proud to hand over the sports equipment for 42 teams, or equipment for 1,848 children from youth clubs. This is the first time that the FFM has made a donation of such a scale for the youth categories, which once again confirms our aspiration for the future,” said FFM President Masar Omeragić at the time.
Subsequently, however, the organisation has received signals that some of the clubs were selling the donated equipment and trying to earn additional funds, generating an angry response from the FFM.
“The Football Federation of North Macedonia informs parents whose children train in youth club categories that the football equipment that the FFM donated to the clubs is free of charge. The equipment must not be charged!”
“We have received information that certain clubs are asking parents for money for the equipment, which is strictly contrary to the conditions under which the FFM granted the donation.
“We encourage you, if your club requests compensation for the equipment, to immediately report it to the FFM. Our goal is for young footballers to have fair conditions for development and support without additional financial burden for parents.
“The FFM will continue to monitor the situation and will react appropriately to protect each young generation,” the announcement concludes.
Contact the writer of this story, Alexander Krassimirov, at moc.l1758622463labto1758622463ofdlr1758622463owedi1758622463sni@o1758622463fni1758622463