Written by: Muhammad Yazid / Khalis Rifhan

Woodlands Wellington Chairman Hussainar Aziz revealed the club’s ambitious plans to be among the big boys in the Great Eastern Yeo’s S.League and play in the continental club competition in the coming years, at their annual fanfare on Sunday morning at the Woodlands Stadium.

500-odd residents from around the community were present at the event and the young ones were entertained with activities such as face-painting, playing by the bouncy castle or having a mini kickabout at the pitch, while the adults were keeping themselves busy by taking photos with the players at the photoshoot booth.

Woodlands have been known to be actively involved with the grassroots initiative over the past years and the attendance at their fanfare showcased their commitment to continue reaching out to the public and garnering support for the club.

The morning ended with a press conference graced by S.League CEO Lim Chin and ESW Chairman Mr Wong Yat Foo, and they were joined by head coach Darren Stewart.

“The vision of Woodlands Wellington Football Club (WWFC) is to be the top team in the S.League over the next five years. The club also seek to perform at the highest level in Asian football by participating in the prestigious AFC Champions League competition,” expressed Hussainar

“The mission of WWFC is to grow its profile through playing a good attacking brand of football to win matches and audiences and create a huge following amongst the residents, schools and different organisations.”

Lim Chin was impressed with the turnout at the fanfare, saying; “The core value of any club is its heartland, because that is part and parcel of a football club.”

Coordinating the event was Woodlands’ team manager Bruce Tan and he was delighted that it went as planned and that fans had enjoyed the event thoroughly.

“It was a very well organised event and I would say events like these are the ones which raise awareness to the public about the club, and bring the Woodlands community together.”

Bruce was also very grateful to ESW, Woodlands’ main sponsor for the second year running.

“We are really thankful for ESW because they also did play a part in making this event a success, and hopefully the future events too.”

“Overall it is important to reach out to the community so that they realise that they can also be part of the match day experience when the season starts.”

Several lucky fans went home with smiles on their face as they won prizes such as a television, dvd player and a mobile set.

The Rams begin their new Great Eastern Yeo’s S.League season with a trip to Hougang Stadium to take on the Cheetahs on 22 February at 7.30pm.