#Thailand #Manchester United #Football #DHL Express #Mae Suek

DHL Express and Manchester United: Bringing Football to Rural Thailand

In a remarkable initiative, DHL Express has partnered with the iconic Manchester United to fulfill the football dreams of the rural community of Mae Suek in Thailand. Known as one of the most isolated regions globally, this community has a remarkable passion for football, particularly for the Red Devils, with over 85% of its population being lifelong supporters of the club.

The launch event, part of the 'Delivering Dreams' campaign, featured Manchester United legend Patrice Evra, who inaugurated a state-of-the-art, all-weather football pitch. This facility aims to provide robust training opportunities for children in the area, overcoming climatic challenges and geographical barriers that previously hindered sports engagement.

Located about 140 kilometers from Chiang Mai, Mae Suek comprises 11 villages and a population of 11,577. Until now, these residents lacked safe sports facilities, managing with local fields that were often rendered unplayable due to extreme weather and the region's hilly terrain. Recognizing this need, DHL Express and Manchester United surprised the community by constructing a top-tier, 9x9 meter football pitch at Jericho Farm, featuring top-quality FIFA 4G artificial turf, similar to what players train on at the Manchester United training facility in Carrington.

Patrice Evra expressed his delight during the opening, stating, “Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces while they played for the first time on this beautiful pitch was unforgettable. I never had such an opportunity when I was young. This initiative is fantastic and making a difference for these kids.”

The pitch will provide daily access to training facilities for over 1,000 children from two local schools and three neighboring villages, fostering regional tournaments and increasing interest in local football academies like Chiang Mai FC.

Bruno Fernandes, Manchester United's captain, shared a heartfelt video message as he gifted club jerseys to the community members, including local referees and football enthusiasts, celebrating their unwavering support for the team. The emotional connection between the fans and the club was palpable as community members expressed their dreams of one day playing in the legendary Old Trafford stadium.

The logistics of constructing such a facility were no minor task. The pitch materials were transported in five trucks, traveling an impressive 800 kilometers from Bangkok to Mae Suek over the course of just two days. This logistical achievement highlights DHL Express's commitment to connecting and empowering communities through sports. Upon completion, local tribespeople were present to bless the pitch, symbolizing a new era of sporting opportunities for the youth in Mae Suek.

Mason Mount, also a player for Manchester United, described the initiative as magical, emphasizing the joy it would bring to local children. “It’s incredible to see a pitch like this in such a remote area, and I can only imagine how much it will mean to them,” he remarked.

DHL Express's Elliott Santon echoed this sentiment, affirming their mission to 'Connect People and Improve Lives.' By enhancing access to professional-grade sports facilities, this campaign not only benefits the current generation but aims to leave a lasting legacy for future football enthusiasts in Mae Suek.

As the world of football continues to inspire hearts and dreams, this unique collaboration serves as a reminder that the spirit of the game transcends boundaries, creating pathways for young talents regardless of where they are from. Through the 'Delivering Dreams' campaign, DHL Express and Manchester United are making strides towards a brighter, more inclusive future filled with the joy of football.