The event at the WCSC takes place on an annual basis. The occasion is held to remember the life of Ali Naqi who had a fatal heart attack when he was 21. His death occurred when he was in a football match with his friends.
Naqi had already undergone several operations because he had been born with a heart problem. The community was upset by what happened and the tradition of playing football to remember Naqi evolved as a result. Local charities gain money from the tournament.
The initial tournament proved to be popular and has since become an annual event. This year’s tournament is the ninth edition and takes place towards the end of August. Charities can use poster printing in Watford for promotional purposes. Haydar Shah was 14 when his uncle died. He told the Watford Observer:
“When it first started there were only a few teams who entered but now so many people from Watford and outside the town take part. The tournament keeps the name alive and to know that he was my uncle and so many people come and pay their respects is amazing.”
The teams which participate in the five-a-side competition are permitted to use three substitutes. Each team is obliged to pay an entry fee.